I recently visited Colombia to work with Sheila Warren, a former Biglaw attorney and general counsel who now leads blockchain and distributed ledger technology at the World Economic Forum. One of her projects is focused on mitigating corruption problems in the government procurement process. Her methodology leverages design-thinking methods to create tools that use blockchain technology to address this challenge. While we are still in the beginning stages, I have learned a few important lessons after extensive research, a few workshops, and numerous discussions with Sheila.
Every Solution Has to be Multifaceted
Technology is not enough to solve big societal problems. To solve real world problems, a solution must have a policy and numerous other components. Sheila says, “Our lives and problems are complex. So, the solutions must be multifaceted as well. In addition to technology the solution must empower the community and shift cultural norms.” She adds, “The solution must also have a policy component that address the default rules, facilitates key interactions, and empowers stakeholders to do the right thing.” For example, how will bad behavior be reported and who will be responsible for carrying the consequences?
Understand and Define the Problem and Successful Solution
Consider dividing complex problems into stages. For example, the government procurement process uses at least the following stages: planning a bidding, bidding, vendor selection, delivering the services, keeping the vendor accountable, and paying the vendor. Sheila shared, “Pinpointing the nature of the problem in each stage helps to design solutions that address complex social problems. Moreover, consider running a small pilot that carefully identifies what narrow problem you are solving and test the proposed solutions.” To do so, she suggests defining success and how it will be measured. Otherwise, how will you be able to assess the success of your pilot?
Local Knowledge Lubricates Interactions on All Fronts
Local knowledge is critical. Sheila explains, “People who understand local culture and business get things done more efficiently, effectively, and timely. They know who to ask. They know how much information needs to be shared to get to a ‘yes.’ They understand the hurdles as well as the opportunities and how to build consensus. If you have a knowledgeable local guide, you will avoid countless hours being frustrated while reinventing the wheel, and your solution will be far more legitimate and sustainable.”
Work with All Stakeholders to Solve the Problem
People for whom you design a solution are experts in their problems. According to Sheila, “They will most definitely describe the nuances of the problems, suggest where failures occur, and who can help to solve them. They are often good at identifying the source of the problem. They have seen when, where, and how things break down for a long time.” She suggests that “[t]hey may also have interesting insights about the solutions. They may event know how to design a solution and where to focus your energy first.” So, be sure to involve all stakeholders to design a solution that addresses various facets and complexities of the challenge at hand.
Start with a Problem, Not a Tool
To a man who has a hammer, everything may start looking like a nail. That is why it is important to start with a problem, not a tool. Interview all stakeholders, understand the root and complexities of the problem, and then ask yourself what tools you may need. Sheila explains, “You may find that the problem you have requires many tools and additional partnerships. Alternatively, you may find simple, elegant solutions that address the opportunity head on. In other words, staying open minded and focused on solving the problem at hand is critical.”
Olga V. Mack is an award-winning general counsel, operations professional, startup advisor, public speaker, adjunct professor at Berkeley Law, and entrepreneur. Olga founded the Women Serve on Boards movement that advocates for women to serve on corporate boards of Fortune 500 companies. Olga also co-founded SunLaw to prepare women in-house attorneys become general counsel and legal leaders and WISE to help women law firm partners become rainmakers. She embraces the current disruption to the legal profession. Olga loves this change and is dedicated to improving and shaping the future of law. She is convinced that the legal profession will emerge even stronger, more resilient, and inclusive than before. You can email Olga at olga@olgamack.com or follow her on Twitter @olgavmack.
Sheila Warren Of World Economic Forum: Solving Corruption Problems In Colombia Using Blockchain curated from Above the Law
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