ReLeaf and the skills-based approach to culture change, as articulated by Per Hugander, both aim to drive lasting transformation. However, they operate in distinct domains: ReLeaf focuses on urban greening, while Hugander's approach addresses organizational culture.
Hugander emphasizes infusing new cultural elements into organizations through a skills-based method, particularly effective in fostering soft skills like perspective-taking. This approach aligns with ReLeaf’s mission of transforming urban spaces into flourishing ecosystems. Both models call for a shift in perspective and the ability to envision alternative futures—whether it be in the culture of an organization or the revitalization of urban environments.
Much like the skills-based approach, ReLeaf connects immediate, tangible outcomes to long-term goals. In organizations, new skills are linked to business results; similarly, ReLeaf ties the transformation of urban spaces to ecological, social, and economic benefits, both short-term and long-term.
The key difference lies in the focus of transformation. Hugander targets organizational culture, aiming to shift underlying beliefs about success. ReLeaf, on the other hand, is focused on physical spaces, though it also seeks to reshape cultural views on urban environments—promoting a shift from seeing these spaces as static to recognizing them as vibrant, dynamic ecosystems.
Another distinction is the medium of change. Hugander’s model works through employees within organizations, using training programs to build new skills. In contrast, ReLeaf’s medium is the environment itself, although human effort and engagement are crucial to actualizing these changes.
In conclusion, both ReLeaf and the skills-based approach underscore the importance of active participation, shifts in perspective, and concrete outcomes in achieving meaningful change. While they apply these principles to different realms—organizational culture for one, and urban greening for the other—their underlying goals of transformation are deeply connected.
References:
- Hugander, Per. "Take a Skills-Based Approach to Culture Change." MIT Sloan Management Review, 22 May 2023.