The rise of the 21st century saw the fall of the traditional work space. New technologies and innovations have led to media, speeds, and complexity of communication technologies that we have never seen before. Many have reflected on how new waves in technology have influenced the way humans interact, and we at AFS are no exception. We explore ways to engage and communicate across difference, and to incorporate technology means to be confronted with the challenge of communicating across difference from a distance.

One concept that has been affected by innovation is Groupthink. The term was invented by Irving Janis in 1972 when he wrote Groupthink: Psychological Studies of Policy Decisions and Fiascoes, and it is used to refer to the dynamics of a group that collaborates to create, decide, deliberate and destroy. We seem however, to misrepresent Janis. Many societies look at Groupthink as a positive way of co-existing and communicating — a trendy work environment to accompany the trendy new iPad. Work environments want to create a Groupthink feng shui (shared spaces, de-cubalization, and brainstorming stations), and lost was Janis’ true theory. The group, he said, can in fact present a problem.

by Andy Rementer

A recent New York Times article, The Rise of the Groupthink, may be the first step to put Mr. Janis to justice. Studies from a number of accredited universities across the U.S. have done studies on this topic, and have reached similar conclusions: creativity, innovation, efficiency, an increase in both quantity and quality of work, are all possible in isolated environments rather than products of the infamous Groupthink. Some of the greatest innovators in the world have been introverts, working alone in their office without anyone’s input or distraction. A great example could be Steve Jobs, but look one step closer and we find the “introverted Steve”. With all the new noise from the electronics we have, a culture of the extrovert has developed. All the attention and credit goes to the charismatic type. Meanwhile, the basis of the Apple empire started with one man, in a dimly lit basement, with nothing but his own ideas and determination to keep him company.

by Andy Rementer

To clarify, the article does not suggest that personal relationships and social interaction are not important. Instead, it highlights some research conclusions that suggest the peak of creativity happens in solitude. With attention paid to these types of studies, we see how the brainstorming session may not always be ideal. We might take a different approach, creating an office space with a cafe-style atmosphere where you have the possibility of casual interaction and cooperation, but also have the opportunity to work in an individually-structured and focused way. No man is an island, but give him a desk surrounded by oceans and you might be surprised at what he can do.

The ways group dynamics, human interaction, and work environments have been affected by technology and innovation are many and varied – and this varies in the many cultures and countries we live in and visit. What prominent changes have the cultures you identify with experienced?