The Industrial Revolution, a period of profound societal and economic transformation, has unfolded in distinct waves. From the advent of steam power in the 18th century to the rise of mass production in the 20th, each wave has brought about unprecedented change, reshaping industries and altering the very fabric of human existence. Today, we stand on the cusp of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), an era defined by the convergence of cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and biotechnology.

Unlike previous revolutions that primarily impacted manufacturing, 4IR is poised to transform every sector, including service industries. Healthcare, finance, education, and even the arts are being reshaped by AI-powered diagnostics, personalized financial services, online learning platforms, and AI-generated art. According to the World Economic Forum #FutureOfJobs Report 2020, this pervasive influence necessitates a fundamental shift in how businesses operate and how leaders approach their roles.

At the heart of navigating 4IR lies the recognition that technology is merely a tool. Its impact hinges on how it is integrated into the broader organizational context. This brings us to the core trinity of People, Purpose, and Process, concepts that have been central to management philosophies like Lean and find resonance in frameworks like the Balanced Scorecard. These pillars, however, take on renewed significance in the age of 4IR.

People, Purpose, and Process Impact

People: In a world increasingly dominated by automation, the human element becomes even more crucial. 4IR demands a workforce that is adaptable, resilient, and equipped with the skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. This necessitates a focus on subtle emotions, spirit-connections, and fostering a culture driven by higher consciousness. Decisions arising from low consciousness can self-annihilate companies faster now than ever before.

Purpose: As technology automates routine tasks, the focus shifts towards higher-order human capabilities – creativity, critical thinking, empathy, and collaboration. Defining a clear and compelling organizational purpose that resonates with employees becomes paramount. This purpose should not only guide business decisions but also inspire people to align their tasks with it. Working without or against purpose is a recipe for deteriorating mental health.

Process: 4IR necessitates a re-evaluation of traditional business processes. Organizations must embrace agility and flexibility to adapt to the dynamic and unpredictable nature of technological advancements. This requires a shift from rigid, hierarchical (command-and-control) structures to more fluid and collaborative (self-management) models that empower employees to innovate and experiment. Keeping the customer at the center of process design is critical.

To effectively navigate 4IR, leaders must cultivate a conscious corporate culture that prioritizes human well-being, aligns organization and individual purpose, and revisits processes for relevance. This involves creating an environment where individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best.

How RENEWALism serves the ends

RENEWALism, a framework that emphasizes that individuals can be the change they want to see in their environments, offers valuable insights in this regard. By mindfully incorporating RENEWALism habits for self-renewal, symbiotic renewal, and systemic renewal, into the organizational culture, leaders can cultivate a workforce that is not only adaptable but also resilient and thriving.

• Self RENEWAL concerns itself with PEOPLE. It is about bringing fresh energy into the organization at all times during each day.
• Symbiotic RENEWAL concerns itself with PURPOSE. It is about sustaining the energetic alignment between org purpose and individual KPIs.
• Systemic RENEWAL concerns itself with PROCESSES. It is about sharpening the axe; preventing the destruction of energies that fragment company culture.

As mentioned earlier, though these 3Ps find equivalence in modern management methods (Lean, Balanced Scorecard), the habits espoused by RENEWALism arise from a totally different place. They are proven to work since over 2500 years and organizations embracing RENEWALism dive into the ancient oriental wisdom of continuous renewal of our energy through a robust alignment of body-mind-spirit.

• The CREATOR energy – People – the Body of an organization
• The SUSTAINER energy – Purpose – the Spirit of an organization
• The DESTROYER energy – Process – the Mind of an organization

Therefore, in conclusion, to stay alive through the Fourth Industrial Revolution, as a business head you must focus on the habits that drive people, purpose, and process. Doing so, you set the pace organically and sustainably… by creating a conscious corporate culture that embraces continuous renewal. Taking a human-centered approach to 4IR is not merely a business imperative; it is a moral imperative that ensures a future where technology serves humanity, rather than the other way around.

Where might you stand currently with regard to a culture that serves you? Take this Quiz to find out!