Exploring Team Pressure Through Play: How Games Can Be a Useful Tool for Organizational Change

Speakers: Alexandra Suchman, Peter Williamson

Bios:

Alexandra Suchman is passionate about creating the human-centered workplaces that make a difference in the world. Her consulting, coaching, and training helps businesses and nonprofits foster the strong teams and operational infrastructures needed to advance their mission and goals. Alex holds a B.A. in Psychology from Colby College and a Master in Public Policy from The George Washington University. She’s also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and DISC Coach.

Peter Williamson is a professional golfer turned entrepreneur who uses his love of knowledge of games, design, and philanthropy to catalyze change in communities. In addition to co-founding Barometer Interactive, he also leads a DC-based creative agency called Game Genius, co-chairs a local giving circle, sits on two nonprofit boards, and is an active Global Shapers member. Peter has a B.A. in Studio Art and Geography from Dartmouth College.

Description:

In professional development and team-building spaces, games and other interactive group experiences are increasingly being used to help team members get to know each other better and explore new approaches to working together. The need for team members to feel connected and establish healthy relationships is especially important in this age of remote and hybrid work. The potential benefits of these activities, however, extend beyond the surface value of the shared experience. Team games also provide an excellent source of observational data regarding individual and team behavior in unfamiliar and uncertain situations, and can be a major resource for OD professionals working with teams through organizational change This 90-minute session will explore how games can be a valuable tool in the organizational change process. The discussion will include specific examples of how games can be useful in: Understanding existing team dynamics and roles. Assessing individual and team readiness for change. Identifying natural leaders who can act as champions during the change process. The primary objective of this session is to highlight how to use observational data from games to inform change strategies and enhance likelihood for success.