INTERPERSONAL CHANGE RESOURCES
CO-CREATION
Co-Creation
The concept and practice of co-creation has its organizational change origins in Theory U. Theory U is a leadership and social change framework developed by Otto Scharmer. It proposes that the key to transformative change is shifting the awareness of individuals and organizations from the current state of the world to a future desired state through a process of co-creation.
Co-creation refers to a collaborative process where multiple, diverse stakeholders work together to create solutions that meet their collective needs. It is an approach that recognizes the interdependence of all stakeholders and leverages their collective wisdom, creativity and resources to create innovative solutions. In the context of Theory U, co-creation is a crucial step in the transformation process, as it enables individuals and organizations to access new sources of inspiration and to design solutions that are more aligned with their deeper purpose and values.
Co-creation vs Collaboration
Co-creation and collaboration are related but distinct concepts. The following are the key differences between co-creation and collaboration:
Purpose: Co-creation is focused on creating something new and innovative together, while collaboration is focused on working together to achieve a common goal.
Involvement: Co-creation involves all stakeholders in the creation process, while collaboration may involve only a subset of stakeholders.
Outcome: Co-creation results in a shared outcome that is owned by all stakeholders, while collaboration results in a shared outcome that is owned by the group.
Decision Making: Co-creation involves a shared decision-making process, where all stakeholders have a voice, while collaboration may involve hierarchical decision making, where power is distributed unevenly.
Relationships: Co-creation strengthens relationships among stakeholders, while collaboration may not necessarily build relationships.
Creativity: Co-creation is more focused on fostering creativity and innovation, while collaboration is focused on achieving a common goal through cooperation.
Process: Co-creation is a holistic and iterative process, while collaboration is more linear and focused on specific tasks.
To learn more about Theory U and how this approach to societal, personal and organizational change may benefit you, visit The Presencing Institute programs’ website.
A number of Women Agents of Change community members have participated in the free Ulab1X and Ulab2x programs. Dorian Baroni, WAOC founder is a senior associate of the Presencing Institute and has integrated Theory U frameworks, approaches and practices into her coaching and consulting work.