Networked For Learning

Now, students can print out plastic parts in the classroom – spot issues, learn from mistakes and find solutions faster. Technology removes the need for manufacturers, tightening the team’s network so they can innovate quicker and better. [4]

Open to Success

Not everyone’s a fan of MakerBot. In 2012, the company moved from open- to closed-source hardware which angered its early adopters. [5]

But many organizations see the value of allowing the public to see and modify its designs. Like WordPress. This open-source content management system was built by hundreds of volunteers. Today, over 300 of the 10,000 biggest websites use WordPress, and worldwide it’s the most popular software to host blogs. [6]

Open-source is the preferred business model for innovators like OpenStax. This online education system cuts out the need for textbooks and lets teachers share and update course materials freely from anywhere in the world.

Feeding the Crowd

Crowdsourcing takes the concept of open-source further by asking outsiders for help. Just like animal health company Elanco. As the global population – and demand for protein – soars, it’s seeking alternatives to the antibiotics used in food production. And achieving that will improve the wellbeing of animals and people.

To do it, Elanco’s asking a global, online community of researchers, academics and startups to tackle challenges. As they solve each one, we all get a step closer to safe, sufficient and affordable protein. [7]

OK Computer

It’s not just humans sharing on networks. With machine learning, computers can team up to spot patterns humans can’t. It’s why healthcare company GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) asked tech specialists Luminosoto to use language and text analytics software to gain insight into parents’ concerns about medication.

Algorithms found patterns of fears such as links between vaccinations and autism as a reason for avoiding jabs. GSK uses these insights to create educational content to address misconceptions and offer parents advice. [8]

Sparking Connections

Looking for ways to get involved in Learning at Work Week or improve the culture of learning in your organization? Here are five simple steps to get started.

1. Network Likes It’s 1999

Before you browse VR headsets, remember that traditional networking still has value. You can set up a workshop – with colleagues from across your organization or industry – and ask for their ideas about how they can network to learn. You’ll get a range of perspectives and discover real business challenges you and your people can address.

2. Embrace Social Networks

As organizations grow and search for global talent, face-to-face communication can get tricky. But you don’t need budget-breaking conferencing gear to connect. You can start small with messaging apps such as Slack, Google Chat and Yammer. They'll help improve collaboration and working culture within flexible offices or virtual teams.

3. Film Your Own TED Talk

TED talks are great for getting under the skin of inspirational leaders, stimulating your brain and inviting new ways of thinking. So, why not create your own panel event with internal talent? You can host a live event and record it to debate over later.

4. Show Your Ideas

When you start generating ideas, don’t snuff them out in an internal email. Instead, invite employees to create wall art around the office, scribble and share via apps such as Bamboo, MrOwl and Trello. Or add ideas to a storyboard on Pinterest.

5. Leave a Digital Legacy

It’s easy for big ideas to lose momentum after the event. So, film the good work of your activities, take pictures of group events to share on a company Instagram, and invite colleagues to blog about what they’ve learned.

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