Biomimicry in the Workplace (Part 5)

This is the fifth of several posts explaining how we are looking to nature's principles (Life's Principles) to develop new ways of thinking about our workplace:


Optimize the system rather than maximizing components. Creatures always have to balance multiple cost/benefit dimensions, there are no single-minded goals (like being bigger, faster, etc.)
- Perform as many functions with as few components as possible
- Think Buckminster Fuller’s geodesic dome

Examples from nature:
- The spider web is a nest, a means for catching prey, infinitely flexible and made from the minimum amount of material.
- The Native American tipi is made of sticks and stretched animal skins. It is infinitely flexible and easily transportable with minimal material required.

Workplace implications:
- Consider the many variables involved, like life-cycle cost, culture change, training needed, space, technology or policy implications
- Use technology, policies, space, and materials as wisely as possible