We all use the word solution numerous times on any single day and yet we may not always have a clear view on what actually is a solution. We want to hire solution-oriented people to join our organizations; we want politicians to offer solutions to the challenges we face; we want businesses to provide products and services that deliver solutions; and we ourselves want to feel productive by developing and implementing solutions. But who will be able to derive meaningful benefits from those solutions? Who determines what resources are provided for solutions geared towards maintaining the status quo versus those challenging it?
Solutions are wanting in this world, but what differentiates a solution from a quick fix or a remedy, (how) can we know if a hailed solution will create adverse side effects? For how long must a solution provide a solution to be a solution? Why are we so receptive for the temptations of solutionist narratives?
These were some of the questions discussed at the 2021 edition of the Annual Humanistic Management Conference. To enrich our practical understanding of the theme, plenty of examples of policies, organizations and individuals that deliver solutions we also provided.
To provide a valuable conference experience an interactive program spanning three days offered keynotes, workshops, paper sessions, panels and online networking opportunities. While the 2021 Annual Humanistic Management Conference was brought to us online, it was still delivered in the same spirit of providing a rich and fun conference experience anchored in the awareness that together we make impact towards a more sustainable and more equitable planet.