Ldg in Future, Cmplx, & Cnflct

3.2 Discussion. VUCA and the Future Nature of Work

Getting Started

The speed at which the world is becoming more complex is increasing. Global economic markets are woven together tighter and tighter so that when one country’s economy is weakened there are ripple effects across the globe. The speed at which computers can process information is increasing exponentially. A term has been coined for leading in this environment: VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity). This week you will attempt to identify the tools needed to lead in a VUCA world. You will begin with a simple video that introduces the topic. You will then read an article that explains the concept in more depth. You will follow that with two articles that explain some of the tools needed. While not required, it is suggested that you take the time to peruse the rest of the resources  OCED’s The Future of Work (new tab)  website which has numerous helpful resources. We end the week with a report from consulting firm Gartner regarding the future of work. It requires you to provide an email address to get the report, and we apologize for that, but it is worth it.

Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:

· Formulate questions that promote critical thinking in others related to VUCA and the future nature of work.

Instructions

1. Review the information in the Getting Started section.

2. View the following (timing has been estimated):

a. Watch Youtube "How to Manage in a VUCA World." (3 minutes)

b. Read Bennett & Lemoine (2014)  What a difference a word makes: Understanding threats to performance in a VUCA world (new tab) . (20 minutes)

c. Read  Managing in a VUCA World (new tab) . (11 minutes)

d. Read  Leading in a VUCA World (PDF document) . (20 minutes)

e. Read  Future of Work Trends Post COVID-19: 9 Long-Term Impacts of the Pandemic and Next Steps for HR (new tab)  – you must provide an email address and then you can download the PDF. (30 minutes)

In your initial discussion thread, post one compelling question connected to one or more of the resources for your topic this week and cite those resources in your post.