Dogma versus Empiricism in a consulting engagement

Explores why rigid dogma hinders consulting, emphasising the value of empirical, flexible, and empathetic approaches for effective problem-solving and continuous learning.

Published on 11 August 2023

Written by Martin Hinshelwood

2 minute read

https://nkdagility.com/resources/Iy33x8E9JMQ

The Thin Line: Dogma vs Empiricism in Consulting Engagements

In my journey, I’ve come to firmly grasp the undeniable truth that dogma holds no ground, especially when it comes to consulting engagements.

Here, I delve deeper into why I assert that dogma really has no place in a consulting engagement. Indeed, it actually has no place anywhere!

Zero Room for Dogma

I genuinely believe that dogma really has no place in a consulting engagement. 🚫

Indeed, it actually has no place anywhere!

These strong words echo my firm belief that consulting should be a realm free of rigid, unyielding doctrines. It should be a space that encourages fresh perspectives and innovative approaches.

Dogma restricts us, hindering the flow of fresh and innovative ideas. It’s essential to realise that what worked yesterday might not be the best solution for tomorrow.

Pedantic Approaches in Training - A Necessary Evil?

While it’s true that there is a place for being pedantic, especially during training phases because you’re trying to learn something - understand the nitty-gritty of processes and systems - it should not be a permanent stance.

There is a place for being pedantic while training because you’re trying to learn something.

Learning is about grasping ‘Here’s the way this thing is supposed to be’, but being open to adaptations and improvements is equally important. 📘

The key is to transition from this phase to a more fluid approach as you step into the real world of implementation.

Engaging with Empathy and Flexibility

Here comes the pivotal point - when you are actively engaging with individuals in an organisation, understanding their roles and aiding them in performing their jobs more efficiently, there’s absolutely no room for a pedantic approach.

Instead, we should focus on fostering relationships based on understanding and building mutual respect. 🤝

Empirical Adaptation

It’s all about pragmatically and empirically adapting our processes to the changing business demands. 💡

Embracing Empiricism means we’re flexible, responsive, and adaptive, ready to mould our strategies per the evolving business landscape.

Join Us on a Journey of Continuous Learning

As we embrace the path of pragmatism and empirical adaptation, I invite you to enhance your Agile and Scrum knowledge with our comprehensive courses.

Let’s pave a path that fosters innovation, responsiveness, and success in the ever-evolving business landscape.

I think that that Dogma really has no place in a consulting engagement. It actually has no place anywhere. Right, Dogma has no place anymore anywhere.

But there is a place for being pedantic when you’re in training, right? Because you’re trying to learn something. Here’s the way this thing is supposed to be. But when you’re actually implementing inside of organisations, when you’re actually talking to people and engaging with them when they’re trying to do their jobs, there’s no place for pedanticism.

Even a word? Either it’s about being pragmatic and empirically adapting our processes to the changing demands of the business. That’s it.

Connect with Martin Hinshelwood

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