Empowering Strategic Problem Solving Within a Traditional Company
Teun, CEO of a successful design and manufacturing firm, wanted his employees to become more strategic thinkers and proactive problem-solvers.
Empowering Strategic Problem Solving Within a Traditional Company
When real change starts with a few brave individuals
What happens when the most respected voice in the room steps back—and lets others lead? Teun, a hands-on CEO of a successful design and manufacturing firm, wanted more than efficiency. He wanted his employees to think independently, act strategically, and take ownership. This is a story about how deep change can start with just a few people—and spread through experience, not instruction.
Tags: Problem Solving • Personal Leadership • Serious Gaming • Coaching
The Challenge
Teun, the CEO of a highly respected design and manufacturing company, was known for his strong traditional leadership style—first in, last out, with every detail under control. But he sensed untapped potential in his team: employees were capable of deeper strategic thinking and proactive problem-solving, yet remained dependent and reactive.
Large motivational sessions hadn’t worked. What Teun wanted was real, lasting change—not a burst of inspiration, but a shift in mindset.
Our Approach
We began small, offering a voluntary workshop combining traditional training with Serious Gaming, focused on practical skills: strategic analysis, creative problem-solving, and implementation.
Rather than lecturing, we created a space where people experienced the impact of their decisions through real-time game dynamics. The results were immediate—high engagement and genuine insight.
At the company’s annual event, Teun proposed a big-stage session. We opted instead for a brief teaser—a powerful invitation to those truly interested. This drew 15 deeply motivated participants.
Key Moments
Small group design: Participants were grouped thoughtfully by personality and role.
Intensive off-site training: Each group joined a focused 3-day experience, deeply engaging in decision-making simulations and systems thinking.
Individual coaching: I stayed involved through the implementation phase to support each participant’s journey.
Teun’s shift: He saw how a small motivated group could create ripple effects through the entire organization.
Results
Participants developed clear, actionable strategies they could apply immediately.
Teams learned to challenge assumptions, think long-term, and act with ownership.
A cultural shift began, not through mandates—but through inspiration and example.
“At first, I wondered if 15 participants out of hundreds was enough. But I’ve learned that meaningful change starts small. Each committed person who genuinely improves something is invaluable.”
Ongoing Impact
The transformation continues years later. New employees join annual sessions, eager to be part of the change. The Serious Gaming methodology remains a central part of training, fostering continuous improvement and strategic growth.
“My goal is that no one ever says, ‘We knew something was wrong, but nobody could fix it.’ These sessions empower our people to create real solutions—that’s their responsibility, and I give them the space to take it.”
Ready to Spark Change in Your Team?
Let’s explore what small, committed action can do in your organization.