The One Who Transforms With Problem Structuring

Lost In Transformation

In this episode, our host and MING Labs' COO and Co-founder Sebastian Mueller talks to Jon Hoel from Innovator SG, a strategy consultancy based in Singapore. Jon has architected transformation programs and run digital design sprints across various sectors, and assisted government agencies and universities in Singapore with futures and foresight work, such as Action Plan Singapore 2026. Much of Jon’s work involves co-creating technology roadmaps and products using methodologies such as Design Thinking and Systems Thinking. He often partners with other professional services firms in facilitating transformation programs and design sprints. In this episode, learn more about problem structuring, Systems and Design Thinking, and common mistakes in transformation efforts.

Chapter

1. The One Who Transforms With Problem Structuring (00:00:00)

2. How did Jon's work at Innovator start? (00:01:32)

3. What does he help people with? (00:02:44)

4. Is it important to bring a consultant from outside? (00:03:38)

5. Why do we need a process facilitation to allow the conversation to happen? (00:04:57)

6. What is problem structuring all about? (00:08:12)

7. How do well structured problems look like? (00:12:06)

8. What scope of problems does Jon usually encounter? (00:14:17)

9. What tools does Jon use to come up with solutions? (00:17:03)

10. How to deal with challenging behaviors during workshop situations (00:20:58)

11. How many people bring a conclusive outcome in workshops? (00:24:14)

12. The role of a Manager/Subject Matter Expert in workshops (00:25:52)

13. Addressing complex problems using Systems Thinking (00:30:43)

14. What was Jon's most challenging situation when trying to help clients? (00:35:03)

15. How to start digital transformation or digital innovation processes (00:40:03)

16. Getting people involved in transformations and securing the whole process (00:46:34)

17. What does successful transformation look like? (00:55:09)

18. Which phases of digitalization do organizations go through? (00:56:05)

19. Why it is important to rethink organizational culture in the process of transformation (01:00:57)

20. Mistakes in transformation processes and ways to avoid them (01:03:22)