
The exciting possibilities
Our increasing reliance on technology is beyond doubt – but are we using it in the best ways? On 17 June, IWFM welcomed chief envisioning officer (and IWFM Conference 2020 keynote speaker) David Coplin to episode 10 of our ‘Navigating turbulent times’ webinar series, which was guest hosted by Facilitate’s own Martin Read. If you missed it, visit IWFM.org.uk or search for ‘Navigating turbulent times’ on YouTube.
There were many thought-provoking insights in the episode, but one of David’s comments that stayed with me is that technology should be used to do things differently and better, not to make old ways of doing things more efficient. This could not be more pertinent when there is a growing sense that 2020 can be the year that we hit the reset button and re-evaluate how we live and work – and technology will be a main driver and facilitator for the changes.
As our profession looks ahead with uncertainty at what the future holds for our workplaces, I feel excited by the possibilities. It may be a daunting prospect for those of us who are less tech-literate, but smartphones and other innovations prove that people will learn and adapt. Equally, as professionals, it is within our power to develop and future- proof our skill sets through CPD.
If this peaceful revolution comes as many expect, our profession will be on the front line; it is therefore also within our power to ensure our next steps are the right ones, and great minds like David and myriad other experts we have had and have yet to welcome to our series can help us get off on the right foot.
Linda Hausmanis is CEO of the IWFM