#ALIShorts Planting Trees, Nurturing Forests: A Deep Dive into Outcomes vs. Outputs

In this enlightening episode of ALI shorts, inspired by Josh Seiden's acclaimed article, we embark on a metaphorical journey through a vast forest. Using the allegory of individual trees representing outputs and the entire forest signifying outcomes, we challenge listeners to consider the broader, interconnected impact of their efforts. Drawing parallels between planting a single tree and introducing a new business feature, we stress the importance of understanding and measuring the true value of our contributions. Beyond mere deliverables, the episode underscores the significance of holistic growth, sustainability, and adaptability in today's dynamic business landscape. Join us as we reflect on the question: Are we merely planting trees, or are we nurturing an entire forest?

Find us here: www.agileleanireland.org

Transcript

Welcome to ally Shorts, where today we embark on a journey through a lush, expansive forest to uncover the difference between simply planting trees and nurturing an entire ecosystem. I promise it's not a botany lesson, but rather an enlightening dive into the world of outcomes over outputs inspired by Josh Seiden's enlightening perspective. Picture this a vast expanse where every tree represents an output, A tangible result of effort. Now, while each tree might be beautiful on its own, it's the entire forest, the ecosystem, the biodiversity, the harmony that truly represents the outcome. Often in our corporate quests, we become master arborists, focusing on planting the tallest. Trees with the broadest. Trunks, but Seiden challenges us to become forest Rangers, guardians of a balanced, thriving ecosystem. Let's break it down. Say you're part of a tech team and you've developed a fantastic new feature for your app that feature it's a tree, but how users engage with this feature, the value it brings to the wider app ecosystem and its ripple effect. That's your forest. The health of the forest determines the actual impact of the tree you've just planted. Siden's insights are more than just a nod to eco awareness in a business context. It means teams should look beyond mere deliverables. Think about it. If your singular tree attracts more birds, helps other plants grow, and maintains the soil's health, then you've achieved A beneficial outcome for the entire forest. Similarly, in business, if a feature improves user engagement. Increases revenue and enhances brand reputation. Then you've got a win. The outcome Syden isn't alone in this train of thought. Many successful companies today are adopting an outcome oriented mindset by focusing on the forest, these organisations ensure long term growth, sustainability and adaptability. An interesting aspect that Seiden points out is the mindset shift. This isn't just about changing performance metrics. It's about adopting A holistic view where every individual tree planted is done so with the health and growth of the forest in mind. As we wrap up this episode, I challenge you to reflect in your role. Are you just planting trees or are you contributing to the health of a grand interconnected forest? Syden's article is a treasure trove of insights for those looking to foster holistic growth, and we can't recommend it enough. This has been another enlightening episode of Ollie Shorts. As always, remember to see the forest for the trees and join us next time for more insights and stories.