The Future is groups.

I have been fascinated by the phenomena of Autopoeisis, for a long time. Having literally (almost) grown up in my grandmas garden, I would be fascinated by how little effort and care “nature” needs, not just to grow but to thrive, on its own

Ofcourse I did not know the term then. And even now, I know the term and still discovering what it means more. I have been curiously observing this phenomena around and in me. As a  practicing biomimic, I am trying to see how can it make sense in Leadership and Organization development and life, as my chosen Playing field.

Ok, so here goes

“Autopoiesis”  is a concept that originated in the field of biology. By biologists Humberto Maturana and Francisco Varela in the early 1970s. The words origins are from the Greek words “auto” (self) and “poiesis” (creation or production).

Principles of autopoiesis. The system forms its boundaries by its own actions. In this system all factors influence the other factors, changing each other in an ever decreasing rate of change until the system will come to rest in a dynamic balance between the influences of the compartments of the system and its environment, the emergent attractor state (ref: Article by Folke Gunther)

In short it simply means “Self-Creation”. I can honestly say, every ten years I voluntarily go through an Autopoiesis of my own.

As living beings, this concept has profound implications not only in biology but also in systems theory, sociology, cognitive science and organizations development.

My other fascination is Groups and the dynamics, behaviours, growth of groups and teams. And I really believe The future is Groups (not individuals)

So I have been wondering how do these two fit.

Autopoietic teams exemplify the principles of autopoiesis, demonstrating, self-sustaining and self-organizing characteristics that enhance their effectiveness and resilience.

Autopoietic teams- are groups that embody the principles of autopoiesis, characterized by their ability

-To self-produce, maintain their identity

-To adapt to their environment through internal processes.

This paradigm emphasizes the autonomy and self-sustaining nature of such teams.

Key Characteristics of Autopoietic Teams

1. Self-Production:

Autopoietic teams generate their own resources, knowledge, and capabilities. They rarely need an “outside” figure to provide. They are adults. This self-production allows them to remain resilient and innovative, as they are not solely reliant on external inputs.

2. Defined Boundaries:

These teams establish clear boundaries that define their identity and operational scope. They behave like adults. can and do say no. This boundary is not rigid but allows for interactions with the external environment while maintaining internal coherence.

3. Adaptive Capacity:

Autopoietic teams are responsive to changes in their environment. They can adapt their processes and structures based on internal dynamics AND external pressures, ensuring long-term sustainability.

4.Collective Autonomy:

Team members operate with a high degree of autonomy, making decisions collaboratively and taking ownership of their roles. This collective autonomy fosters engagement and accountability within the team. They don’t ‘ need to be provided/ given” this freedom. They know they have it.

Over the years of also working with some Tribal groups, I have seen Autopoietic team work. And have used this frame in building A-Teams (I like that word)

Perhaps we need to look more deeply and practically to nature to find the answers to what is needed MOST in the world today.