In this podcast we explore emergent possibility through the use of new digital maps. They allow us to see the world differently, and create and capture value creatively.
Stop looking at the world as static and unchanging. The traditional political world map with its fixed borders doesn’t represent the dynamic transformations shaping our future. We need to move beyond this limited perspective and adopt a new way of seeing the world, one focused on connectivity, movement, and transformation.
To illustrate this shift, let's discuss two emerging maps that offer a fresh perspective:
The Connectivity Atlas: This interactive map highlights global infrastructure, revealing the complex networks of roads, railways, pipelines, and communication lines that unite us. This atlas moves away from traditional maps showing political borders to illustrate the interconnectedness of our world and its impact on economies, identities, and opportunities.
The Open Buildings Initiative: This high-resolution map, developed by the UN and Google, tracks building footprints and heights across Africa and the Global South. By revealing the scale and evolution of urban landscapes, this tool aids governments and organisations in planning infrastructure, disaster response, and development projects.
These new maps provide insights into the changing global landscape, but leaders need to translate these insights into strategic advantage. Here are three practical steps to do so:
Engage in futures thinking: Explore multiple scenarios for your organisation, industry, and region to anticipate potential opportunities and threats. This is not about predicting the future but about preparing for different possibilities.
Map your own networks: Identify both obvious and less visible connections that link your organisation to emerging markets, technologies, and potential collaborators. These networks can lead to breakthroughs and new opportunities.
Use open data to inform strategy: Leverage tools like the Open Buildings dataset to understand demographic shifts, urban growth, and infrastructure changes. This data can help you identify future customers, talent, and investment opportunities.
The key takeaway is that the world is not static. Leaders who embrace this fluid view of global dynamics and utilize new tools and mindsets will be better positioned to find their strategic edge and shape positive outcomes for the future.
When you change the way you see the world, you change the way you can shape it.
*Season one of The Global Edge podcast with Sophie Krantz is AI generated. Season two, launching early in 2025, will be hosted by Sophie Krantz.
