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Research: iterations is performing Weak Signal® Research on a variety of levels. Specific activities include:
Weak Signal® Research is one of the core missions of iterations. Characteristics of a Weak Signal include:
(There is a considerable body of information on Weak Signals and Weak Signal Research on the MG Taylor website, ranging from the origins of Weak Signal theory in the cybernetics of Shannon, Wiener, Miller and others, to an explanation of the Weak Signal Research Model. This is a good place to begin your explorations of that information.)
We are all surrounded by tremendous amounts of data from which we can often identify certain patterns developing in this vast assortment of facts, statistics and experiences. Weak Signal Research involves the systematic identification and investigation of these emerging patterns. Those who excel at Weak Signal Research are often credited with having great insight, being "visionaries" and "ahead of their time." iterations is actively involved in a variety of Weak Signal Research activities for the Value Web® of MG Taylor organizations. In general, these activities are focused around building and maintaining a Body of Knowledge for the Value Web. One area of focus of iterations Weak Signal Research relates to the question of how research itself is carried out. Scientific research is rapidly evolving a variety of new operational models in response to changes in technology and in society. The "Endless Frontier" model spelled out by Vannevar Bush and others following World War II has been very successful by almost any measure. The fact that this science policy framework (model) is no longer as appropriate as it once was has been widely noted and commented upon, i.e., some of these signals are no longer weak! Many alternative models for doing and funding scientific research are evolving. The next 30 years will see incredible changes in society, driven largely by advances in science and technology. iterations, through the MG Taylor Value Web, has considerable experience in helping organizations deal with rapid and profound rates of change. iterations is intent on playing an increasingly active role in the ongoing global conversations surrounding issues of science and technology policy, the social contract between scientists and society.
Another level of iterations Research involves one of our most important laboratories since 1988, the sailing vessel CAMELOT. CAMELOT is a 22 ton, teak-planked, bronze-fastened, gaff-rigged, cutter-ketch. We have completely restored and reconfigured the boat over the last 12 years. It has been an exercise of design, build, use - as well as - an intensive practice of collaboration over an extended period of time. CAMELOT is both a working environment and a home. She exemplifies craftsmanship and great utility. Feedback is fast on CAMELOT so what works - and does not - can be learned quickly. Bad design decisions with a boat can be dangerous - not just expensive and ugly. High levels of integration between mechanical systems, arrangement and esthetics are required because of both the small size of the boat (given the many functions provided) and the dynamic medium in which she lives. The process is never finished with CAMELOT. She is in a constant state of evolution. Her architecture is continuous and dynamic. How-to-maintain is an essential design feature - and critical to both comfort and survival. |
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page iterated 03.04.07 Copyright © 2000 - 2003, Iterations, L.L.C., All rights reserved. |
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