Blog - Thoughts, insights and musings from the LEVO team

Stay up-to-date with the latest industry news as our team explores new innovations, trends and insights from across the globe.

LEVO Latest: Federation University’s Website Overhaul

Published: August 31, 2024
Author: Apsara Rajaindran
Client Engagement Director

Universities today are facing what many are calling a once-in-a-lifetime upheaval. With disruptions coming from every direction, the landscape of higher education is rapidly changing. The recent Universities Accord Final Report, commissioned by the Federal Government, has an ambitious target of lifting the attainment rate of tertiary education among the population from the current 60 per cent, to 80 per cent by 2050, emphasising just how significant these changes are. To reach this ambitious goal, universities will need to attract and support a much broader range of students, fundamentally rethinking how—and why—they deliver education. Amid these challenges, Federation University Australia, a leader among regional universities with a strong commitment to supporting return-to-study students, recognized the need for a robust digital presence that could adapt to these new demands. They turned to LEVO to help reimagine their public-facing website, and together, we embarked on a journey to create a platform that would not only meet the needs of today’s students but also be prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. Federation University has a long history of serving its regional communities and diverse student body. As the higher education sector faces increasing pressure, the university knew that its digital presence had to be more than just a website—it needed to be a dynamic, user-friendly platform that could cater to the unique needs of non-traditional students. This was not a project to be taken lightly. Federation University approached the redesign with a clear vision and a hands-on attitude, working closely with our team to ensure that every aspect of the new site aligned with their mission. They weren’t just looking for a cosmetic update; they wanted a digital experience that would truly reflect their commitment to accessibility and flexibility in education. One of the biggest challenges we faced was the timeline. With just six sprints to completely redesign and implement the website, the pressure was on to deliver a high-quality, user-focused platform within a very short period. We adopted an agile approach, with our design team working ahead of the developers to keep the project on track. This method allowed us to stay flexible and make continuous improvements along the way. Federation University’s active participation and quick decision-making were key to overcoming the timeline challenge. The new site is designed to serve a wide range of users, from prospective students to existing. It was more than just a digital facelift - it’s a platform that supports the university’s commitment to accessible, flexible education and positions them for continued success in a rapidly evolving sector. The revitalised public website is just the first step in Federation University’s digital transformation strategy, with plans in place to further enhance the user experience for both students and staff.

Published: May 19, 2024
Author: Cale Maxwell
CEO

In today's hyper-competitive market, it's crucial to focus on what your own audience values most rather than blindly following competitors ( see our article on Tech FOMO for more on this topic). With financial constraints tighter than ever, understanding and innovating around your audience's values is key. Australia Post’s eCommerce Industry Report 2024 offers valuable insights into consumer behaviours and trends that can help businesses align their strategies with what really matters to their customers. The importance of understanding consumer values What the report can help us understand is the importance of knowing and catering to the values of different consumer groups. For instance, sustainability has become a significant factor for many shoppers, particularly among younger generations. According to the report, 93% of Gen Z shoppers prioritise sustainability and ethical practices when making purchasing decisions. This means that businesses looking to attract and retain these customers must demonstrate their commitment to environmental and social responsibility. Innovating around consumer expectations Innovation in response to consumer values isn’t just about having the right products; it’s about creating an overall shopping experience that aligns with those values. The report highlights several trends that businesses can leverage: Seamless returns policies : Nearly 76% of online shoppers read a website’s return policy before making a purchase. A hassle-free return process can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. For example, homewares retailer Adairs has successfully implemented a 90-day returns policy for its loyalty program members, making the customer experience as flexible and pleasant as possible. Sustainability and transparency : Consumers are increasingly wary of greenwashing, where companies falsely claim or exaggerate their environmental efforts. Brands like ALÉMAIS are setting a benchmark by being transparent about their supply chains and sustainability practices. This builds trust and loyalty among consumers who are keen to make responsible choices. Leveraging omnichannel strategies : The report underscores the importance of an omnichannel presence, noting that 60% of businesses found it improved customer engagement. Pop-up shops and market stalls offer a cost-effective way to maintain a physical presence and directly engage with customers. Rikki Gilbey’s WAW Handplanes started at local markets and has now expanded globally, showing the power of direct customer interaction in building a brand. Embracing recommerce : The rise of recommerce, or the resale of secondhand items, is another trend highlighted in the report. Programs like Birdsnest’s Rehatched platform not only support sustainability but also offer customers affordable alternatives. This approach caters to the growing market for secondhand goods, valued at over $60 billion in Australia. Personalising customer experiences with AI : Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising eCommerce by enabling personalised shopping experiences and predictive analytics. The report notes that AI can automate tasks, streamline order processing, and provide valuable insights into consumer behaviour. Retailers can use AI to tailor offers based on customer preferences, enhancing online and in-store experiences. At LEVO, we embed research at the core of our strategic design process. Whether through our own team conducting interviews, facilitating workshops, analysing data, or undertaking a comprehensive consumer market scan in partnership with our sister agencies Hall and Partners or Perceptive , research helps us prioritise your capital where it will generate the greatest value for you and your customers. Reports like the Australia Post eCommerce Industry Report 2024 provide a great start in understanding the macro trends across our commerce landscape. By focusing on these insights, we ensure your investments yield the best returns and align with what your customers truly value.

Published: April 26, 2024
Author: Mohamed Elgharabawy
Head of Composable Technology

At LEVO, we take great pride in the diversity of our team, which spans across continents, from Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, to France, Brazil, Poland, China, Indonesia, and India, among others. In this article, I aim to delve into how LEVO not only celebrates this remarkable diversity but also navigates the challenges and embraces the opportunities it presents. Time Zones Navigating different time zones and locations is undoubtedly one of the most significant hurdles we encounter. Coordinating meetings and deadlines across multiple time zones requires meticulous planning and adaptability. However, rather than viewing this as a barrier, we've learned to embrace it as an opportunity to enhance flexibility and efficiency in our communication and project management. We have learned that not everything needs to be a meeting. Encouraging a note-culture can go a long way in eliminating unnecessary meetings and keeps work flowing smoothly. Additionally, we've found that allowing team members to start their days early or late to get a better crossover with their teammates enables more productive and easier communication. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for working parents who may need to adjust their schedules to accommodate family responsibilities during the day, ultimately promoting a healthier work-life balance for all team members. Communication Effective communication lies at the heart of our multicultural team. With team members representing diverse cultural backgrounds and linguistic fluencies, it's essential to be mindful of potential language barriers and communication styles. We've discovered that fostering a culture of open communication, active listening, positive assumptions, and empathy is key to ensuring everyone feels heard and understood. Regular team check-ins, one-on-one meetings, and language exchange initiatives have enabled us to build strong relationships and foster mutual respect within the team. Moreover, we've leveraged screen recording apps to facilitate handovers between developers, reducing the need for lengthy meetings and ensuring clear and concise communication of project updates. This approach has proved particularly beneficial for team members where English is their second language, allowing them to review instructions at their own pace and refer back to them as needed. Additionally, we place a strong emphasis on ensuring requirements are clear and well-defined before team members start working on tickets. By setting them up for success from the get-go, we minimise the risk of misunderstandings and rework, ensuring efficient project delivery and maximising productivity. Cultural & Religious Sensitivity At LEVO, we deeply value and respect the diverse backgrounds, religions, customs, and traditions of our team members. We actively incorporate this awareness into our everyday interactions and decision-making processes. For example, recognising the significance of cultural and religious holidays, we encourage team members to share their cultural practices and traditions with the rest of the team. Our teams also have the freedom to swap any public holidays they don’t celebrate with ones that are more significant to them. This not only fosters a sense of belonging but also promotes cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. On a personal note, as a Muslim member of the LEVO team, I appreciate the flexibility to block time for my Friday prayers and then replace that time later. This accommodation allows me to honour my religious obligations while ensuring that my work responsibilities are met. Additionally, our company provides prayer rooms that are available for use by anyone from any faith during working hours, further demonstrating our commitment to inclusivity and respect for diverse religious practices. Work-Life Balance Maintaining a healthy work-life balance can pose a challenge, particularly when team members are spread across different time zones and cultural contexts. To address this challenge, we prioritise flexible work arrangements and encourage team members to set boundaries and manage their time effectively. Providing access to resources for mental health support and promoting wellness initiatives, such as our Employee Assistance Program (EAP), further contributes to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. As a service organisation that delivers projects, we understand the importance of meeting deadlines while also ensuring the well-being of our team members. Sometimes, the workload can be demanding, and we have to work hard to hit deadlines. However, we strive to strike the right balance between productivity and personal well-being. Encouraging open communication and transparency, we collaborate with our clients to establish realistic project timelines and manage expectations effectively. This approach not only enables us to deliver high-quality work but also ensures that our team members feel supported and valued throughout the process. Using Diversity To Our Advantage So far, we have talked about some challenges and discussed how we have made it work. However, embracing workplace diversity isn't just about navigating challenges; it's about harnessing the unique strengths and perspectives of each team member to drive innovation, creativity, and success. By leveraging our differences as assets rather than obstacles, we can create a dynamic and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best. Together, let's continue to celebrate diversity, champion inclusion, and reap the countless benefits of working in a truly diverse and vibrant team.

Published: April 26, 2024
Author: Cale Maxwell
Chief Executive Officer

The field of marketing has seen a surge of omnichannel strategies leading to an unprecedented rate of content production. Despite this, the processes supporting content creation have remained largely manual and unchanged over the years. This is in stark contrast to other industries like software and product development, where standardized lifecycles and systems like JIRA and Azure DevOps have brought consistency and efficiency to the table. Content development, however, lacks such a recognized, standardized process, leaving a significant gap in the market. The Evolution of Content Creation and the Role of AI The advent of AI has revolutionized how companies produce content, offering new possibilities for efficiency and innovation. Yet, AI alone isn't the silver bullet. While AI can streamline certain aspects of content creation, it cannot replace the human touch needed for creativity and strategic thinking. The overreliance on AI risks creating a world of generic, undifferentiated content. The Need for a Systematized Approach to Content Development Systems like Trello, Asana, Monday.com, and Wrike have replaced spreadsheets in many organizations, primarily focusing on task tracking. However, these platforms don't fully address the complexities of content lifecycle management. There's a growing opportunity for marketing teams to systematize their content development, integrating technology to enhance efficiency while allowing human creativity and strategic insight to shine. Content Marketing Platforms: The Game Changer Enter Content Marketing Platforms (CMPs), technology designed to manage the content development lifecycle in a more targeted and effective way. A CMP can serve as the backbone of a Content Development Lifecycle (CDLC), guiding content from ideation through creation, collaboration, review, distribution, and end-of-life management. This approach offers several key benefits: Enhanced Quality and Consistency: A structured CLCM process, supported by CMPs, ensures content meets quality standards and remains consistent across platforms and touchpoints. ⁠Efficient Resource Utilization: By streamlining content creation and distribution, CMPs optimize the use of resources, saving time and manpower. Agility and Responsiveness: With a clear process and supportive technology, marketing teams can quickly adapt to market changes and strategic shifts. Better Integration with Technology: CMPs provide cohesive and efficient workflows, integrating seamlessly with existing marketing technologies. Improved Measurement and Analysis: Tracking content throughout its lifecycle allows for valuable insights and more informed decision-making. The Need Is More Crucial Than Ever In summary, the need for a structured Content Lifecycle Management system in marketing is more crucial than ever. With the integration of CMPs, marketing departments can harness the benefits of standardized processes akin to those in software and product development. This approach ensures not only the quality and efficiency of content but also its strategic and creative excellence in an ever-evolving digital landscape. As marketing continues to embrace digital transformation, the implementation of a robust CLCM process, supported by the right technology, will be pivotal in the success of marketing strategies and campaigns.

Published: April 25, 2024
Author: Cale Maxwell
CEO

Last week in Miami at Elevate — The Global Commerce Summit™, I learned many interesting things about how digital commerce is evolving and how these evolutions are set to reshape our industry. After a packed week of talks and networking with nearly 700 commerce leaders from around the globe, I scribbled down heaps of notes from talks, breakout sessions, and chats over food and drinks. One thing’s for sure: generative AI is a hot topic in every presentation and conversation. Continuing the thread, I've fed all my scribbles through an AI to help pull out the five big ideas shaping our industry. Here's my narrative of what's on the horizon: Digital commerce will continue to grow Digital commerce isn't just growing; it's set to dominate, with Asia-Pacific at the forefront. Dirk Hoerig shared that many industries have been slow to embrace e-commerce fully, but that’s changing. They're beginning to adopt it with significant technological advancements like maturing augmented reality and AI and shifting consumer expectations. Over the next few years, this shift will significantly alter the business landscape. B2B uptake will be a major catalyst in this shift. It will also create lots of opportunities for companies like LEVO . Technology complexity mirrors business complexity The complexity of composable technology directly mirrors the complexity of the business needs it supports. If your business operates with intricate rules and models, the technology solutions required will naturally be complex. Conversely, if your business needs are simple and direct, the composable technology can remain straightforward. Essentially, the complexity of the technology is adaptable and scales according to what your business demands. Selling t-shirts online? Composable can still be a good fit; the technology can be as simple or as complex as you want to make it. Products like commercetools are designed to grow with you as your business needs evolve. Think big. Start simple. The new dawn of omnichannel commerce The buzz around omnichannel commerce is about to become a reality. We're heading towards a convergence where point-of-sale (POS) systems and e-commerce platforms blend into one seamless experience. This integration promises to enhance customer service and simplify the consumer experience, allowing brands to harness a holistic view of their customers' interactions. Achieving a real-time, actionable view across all channels remains challenging for many, but the landscape is changing fast. The integration of composable products through common standards is paving the way for this new era of shopping. AI is everywhere Artificial Intelligence (AI) will revolutionise not only marketing, content creation, communications, and customer service but also how we engineer commerce experiences. The future will see AI taking over basic engineering, production, and design tasks, with skilled humans enhancing these processes. Assisted by AI, consultancies like LEVO will leverage their deep understanding of AI tools, technology, and human behaviour to blend data, insights, and creativity into strategic outcomes. The competition to develop the most effective code that binds composable solutions together will shift to become the responsibility of AI companions, and the most successful partners will be those who combine profound platform knowledge with human creativity to solve complex business problems that leverage technology in unique ways. The presentation by Heather Hershey, Research Director at IDS , drove home the importance of AI and AGI within management circles. Her message was clear: "It's not about AI versus humans; it's about humans with AI versus humans without AI" – and similarly, companies with AI vs those without. This emphasises that AI isn’t replacing us; it's about how we use AI to our advantage. Agility is essential for success In this swiftly changing commercial environment, successful organisations will be agile enough to adapt quickly. The edge will go to those ready to overhaul traditional business strategies and attitudes, fully leveraging new opportunities. Agility encompasses more than just operational adaptability—it's about embracing technologies like Accelerators, commercetools Connect, and Foundry. These tools are essential for speeding up market entry and streamlining the transition to a composable commerce architecture. Michael Sharp, Chief Product Officer at commercetools, delivered a keynote titled "Simplify, Lead, Excel." He highlighted commercetools' focus on making technology more accessible and easier to implement. This strategy benefits commercetools and their partners, offering ways to help clients deploy composable projects iteratively, thereby reducing the risks and delays typical of large-scale implementations. As we look into the future changes from digital and omnichannel commerce, backed by AI, here are three tips for businesses to get ready: Adopt the right technology : Start using flexible technology like commercetools that can keep up as things change. This ensures you can mix your online and in-store sales smoothly. If you haven’t already – read our article about all the Ferraris in garages . Encourage new ideas : Ensure your team is always ready to learn and try new things. Create a place where coming up with fresh ideas is part of everyday work and where AI tools are seen as helpers in your projects. Manage the change well : Put together an excellent plan to help your people adapt to new ways of working. This should include training to learn new skills, clear messages about why changes are good, and leaders who help everyone along the way. Introducing and integrating composable technology, AI, and other innovations properly will significantly enhance their value to your organisation. These steps are just a start to help you succeed in a world where technology, AI, and the evolution of human behaviour are changing how we do business. The things I learned at Elevate 2024 weren’t just about new tech—they were a push for all of us (customers, consultants, agencies, and vendors) to step up and adapt.

Published: April 23, 2024
Author: Cale Maxwell
CEO

When planning a trip, the excitement often starts with booking your flights. Although my travel agent handled the booking, my digital journey with United Airlines began a week before departure, and it was a beautiful showcase of a powerful blend of technology and customer service that we advocate for at LEVO. The first touchpoint was an email from United, which was not just a confirmation, but a comprehensive travel checklist. This checklist included everything from arrival documentation to baggage limits, and introduced me to the United mobile app. The app would soon prove to be my control room for the trip. As the departure day approached, United's communication shifted to SMS and app notifications. The transition was seamless. Twenty-four hours before my flight, I received a reminder to check-in, which I completed effortlessly through the app. The forms were simple and straightforward, ideal for an international traveller like myself. Once registered, the app became central to my trip management. It allowed me to: Check in and manage my itinerary, Receive real-time updates about flight changes, View detailed information about my flights, including the status of the inbound aircraft, Communicate directly with United agents. On the day of departure, a timely SMS confirmed that my flight was on schedule, provided the gate number, and reminded me of my confirmation number—just as I was en route to the airport in an Uber. The timing was perfect. Arriving at the airport, I used the digital boarding pass from the app to check in and drop off my bags in under three minutes. The app had cleverly collected all necessary paperwork the day before. As I headed to customs, another SMS thanked me for checking my bags and provided a tracking link and a digital copy of my bag tag numbers. As boarding time neared, another message informed me that boarding was ready. The United app kept me updated with badges on my iPhone, counting down to boarding, and reminding me of my seat number once on board. Even during a flight delay in Sydney, the app kept me informed about my connecting flights, and I could chat with a United agent to make necessary adjustments. Seconds after landing, the app prompted me for feedback, completing a circle of continuous digital engagement that complemented the physical experience beautifully. Throughout the trip, United's digital tools took care of administrative tasks, allowing their staff to focus on customer service and ensuring a smooth, enjoyable travel experience. Highlights of the experience: The badge showed by boarding group and seat number along with a real-time countdown timer to the boarding time. Easy access to my boarding pass. Gate number and an indicator as to whether the flight is still scheduled to depart on time. Regular SMS communication throughout my travel experience. Sometimes this felt a little overkill however if you were without internet connectivity for whatever reason it meant that you didn’t miss any communications. Real time status throughout the flight. The integration between the app and the flight monitor was really neat. My arrival gate number so that I could orient myself with my arrival gate and where my next connecting flight was. The app also contained detailed maps of all the airports so that you could see how far away each gate was. As soon as a baggage carousel was allocated your app updated – no more trying to find your flight on the airport monitors. The app also included a seat map which allowed you to view a 3D visual of the seat position. Throughout the flight your arrival time was kept updated. We were late leaving Sydney and this was updated multiple times throughout the flight as we were issued landing spots at LAX. The app included a chat facility where you could engage with a United consultant for any reason throughout the flight. I was unsure whether my baggage was checked through to Miami or whether I needed to collect it at LAX so used this during the flight. The agent asked for my checked baggage ID, which was sent via SMS after check in and promptly advised me that I needed to collect my bagged at LAX, but from there it would be checked through to Miami. The notification badge showed your gate number and countdown time until you are due to board. After you had scanned into the flight at the boarding gate it then showed your seat number and the countdown time until departure and then countdown time until you land. This experience underscored the potential of technology to enhance physical experiences—a principle we hold dear at LEVO. We strive to integrate effective technology with genuine human interaction, much like United Airlines did on my trip. Our team of psychology graduates, marketers, and content managers works tirelessly to ensure that our digital experiences enrich the human aspects of each interaction with your brand or business. United Airlines provided a masterclass in blending digital prowess with exceptional customer service, mirroring our philosophy at LEVO, where we use technology to enhance, not overshadow, the human experience.

Published: April 23, 2024
Author: Cale Maxwell
Chief Executive Officer

Change leadership is the process of leading people through change. Gone are the days of issuing edicts and expecting people to comply. Poor change leadership can see projects stumble, valued staff resign and diminished benefits realisation. Effective change leaders have a deep understanding of how people experience change and are able to persuasively communicate a vision and strategy for change that drives action and momentum. With the rapid rate of change driven by technology, change leadership is a fundamental part of any successful technology strategy or implementation. These initiatives can have a significant impact on people and their ways of working. In order to absorb the shock of these changes in their day to day work, staff must have a leader who creates confidence and resilience to weather the storm. As such, it is important to have a clear vision and strategy for change that takes into account the needs of employees. Change leaders need to be able to effectively communicate the vision and strategy for change in a way that inspires people to take action. This is especially important when navigating a complex technology project. When implementing change associated with the delivery of a technology project, it is also important to consider the following: What is the desired outcome of the change? What are the risks and potential challenges associated with the change? How will people be impacted by the change? What is the timeline for implementing the change? What resources are required to support the change? Who is responsible for ensuring the change is adopted? Change leadership is a critical component of successful change management. When done well, it can help ensure that technological change is navigated successfully and that employees are engaged and supported throughout the process.

Published: April 9, 2024
Author: Jerica Macaraeg
Junior Analyst

It only occurred to me as I hopped off the train at Wynyard and arrived at the entrance of the pier that I was about to step into the real world and workforce. I guess something I knew I was going to encounter during my first few weeks as an intern was the transition. Being a full time uni student and casual retails assistant and then having the opportunity to pursue my career interests in the professional environment. It honestly still feels surreal…to not only be granted such an opportunity but also change the preconceptions I had of the workforce. For me, it was like a whole paradigm shift. From being surrounded by fellow peers my age to people in the workforce who were passionate, detail oriented, and highly analytical. These observations I had from working at LEVO thus far, shifted my mindset, igniting my desire to be just like them. I aspire to understand the requirements of clients in different industry contexts requiring different solutions and to also think outside the box. It was so interesting to see how one could be creating a B2B solution for an office supplies company like Officeworks, to designing a website for a florist company like Interflora. Coming into the organisation, I was interested in various things such as how a project goes about and how a client communicates requirements that are manifested into a digital solution. Although I knew that communication was essential and without question unavoidable in the workforce, seeing it all come together with developers, project managers and designers with all their different specialties for example was admirable. Also the fact they were so proficient in what they do and being able to translate their work to other people: The Director of Advisory recommending a client to install additional content tagging add ons e.g Geta.Optimizely.Tags or integrating Google Tag Manager to their solution. Their ability to break down how the add-on can build a taxonomy and provide relevant searches/filtering for their content to make it easier for the client to understand its benefits was very interesting. I was also surprised how tight knit the organisation was; it felt like a community rather than just professionals coming together to solve a problem. I had preconceptions of the workforce being more strictly work-oriented and for getting their work done as their main priority. However at LEVO, I observed their flexibility and the importance of work life balance. Seeing everyone at LEVO work together whilst also being able to have a laugh and get to know bits and pieces of everyone’s life outside of work was refreshing. As it was definitely a brand new environment I hadn’t experienced, to my surprise everyone was so keen to help me get on board and ease in. I had the chance to meet a lot of employees in the organisation during my onboarding process including the Chief Operating Officer, project managers, frontend/backend developers, solution architects and UX designers to name a few. I also never knew what ‘client engagement directors’ were but getting to know everyone developed my understanding of what they do, how the business works, and was also given plenty of career advice. As 2023’s recipient of the Women in Tech scholarship, the title itself is already daunting enough…it’s hard to believe how I was able to be given such an amazing opportunity. I had also questioned myself on my first days if I was good enough, had the right skills and didn’t want to sound dumb for asking silly questions. However, working at LEVO has flipped these preconceptions, making me understand that when you enjoy what you do in a supportive and inquisitive environment, it doesn’t feel like work at all…and there are no silly questions! Nonetheless I am extremely grateful for such an opportunity, and will continue to keep learning!

Published: March 27, 2024
Author: Tim Freeman
COO

When it comes to business strategy and innovation, the quest for methodologies that not only engage but also unlock the full potential of teams is never-ending. Among the myriad of tools at our disposal, one stands out for its unique approach and surprising effectiveness: LEGO® Serious Play® . Often associated with childhood play, LEGO® possesses an inherent capacity to foster creativity, facilitate strategic alignment, and drive innovation in a corporate setting. From Child's Play to Strategic Play At its core, LEGO® Serious Play® breaks down the traditional boundaries of age and profession and relies on the universal language of creativity and construction that many of us embraced in our youth. By reintroducing LEGO® into the professional environment, we tap into a deep well of imaginative thinking and problem-solving skills that often lie untapped in the day-to-day routine of corporate life. So, what is LEGO® Serious Play®? LEGO® Serious Play® is more than just building with bricks; it's a facilitated process designed to enhance innovation, communication, and collaboration within teams and organisations. Through the construction of 3D models, participants convey complex ideas, share personal insights, and explore various scenarios in a tangible and engaging manner. This hands-on approach not only democratises the conversation but also fosters a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities at hand. Real-World Impact: Case Studies from LEVO and Clemenger Connect At LEVO, we use LEGO® Serious Play® to assist our clients in navigating the complex challenges of strategy development, stakeholder alignment, and innovation. From financial services, higher education through to not for profits, our experience underscores the method's versatility across various industries and contexts. Last week at Clemenger Connect, a convergence of senior management teams from all Clemenger Group companies, we used LEGO® Serious Play® to facilitate sessions aimed at fostering broader collaboration and aligning the group's strategic objectives. The outcome was a resounding success, marked by an unprecedented level of engagement and collective buy-in to the group's goals. Moreover, LEGO® Serious Play® has become an integral part of our initial engagement process with clients. By incorporating this methodology early on, we ensure that all stakeholders are not only aligned but also deeply invested in the project's success. This alignment is crucial for navigating the project's subsequent phases with cohesion and a shared vision. Embrace LEGO® Serious Play® The journey from skepticism to advocacy for LEGO® Serious Play® is both enlightening and rewarding. Beyond its novelty, the method offers a profound way to break down communication barriers, unearth innovative solutions, and align teams around common goals. As professionals continually seek more effective ways to strategise, collaborate, and innovate, LEGO® Serious Play® stands out as a potent tool in the corporate arsenal. It's time to unlock its potential and reimagine what we can achieve together, one brick at a time. Embrace the transformative power of LEGO® Serious Play® and watch your team's creative and strategic capabilities soar to new heights.

Published: March 18, 2024
Author: Cale Maxwell
Chief Executive Officer

In the ever-evolving world of technology, there's an undeniable sense of FOMO gripping many organisations. The rush to adopt the latest trends like personalisation, AI content generation, and other emerging technologies is palpable. Yet, amidst this technological arms race, there's a critical oversight: many companies are leaping forward without mastering the basics. This in turn is slowing many organisations down rather than speeding them up. This image was created with the assistance of DALL·E 2 Understanding the pitfalls of blind tech pursuit The urge to mirror competitors, to have what they have, and do what they do, is leading many companies down a precarious path. This 'keeping up with the Joneses' mentality is causing some organisations to lose sight of their strategic vision and operational capacity. This is further compounded by crappy advice from consultants who are recommending best of breed technology for organisations without the capability or capacity to operate. The time for a reality check is now: just because a competitor has implemented a certain technology doesn't mean it's the right fit for your organisation. Refocusing on strategic alignment and living within means Organisations need to shift their attention inward, prioritising initiatives that align with their strategic vision and operational capabilities. This approach involves a shift from relentless investment in new tools to a more sustainable and effective strategy. The current trend of chasing every new technological advancement is not just financially taxing; it's also diminishing the effectiveness of marketing and digital efforts. Before sprinting towards the next shiny object, companies should consider a focus on extracting value from their existing technology investments. A well-performing Camry is often more effective than a Ferrari that no one knows how to drive or cannot be maintained. The effectiveness of technology doesn't solely depend on its sophistication but on how well it's utilised. Rethinking tech budgets: capability development and change management The solution lies in a fundamental rethinking of technology budgets. Instead of allocating disproportionate resources to acquiring new tools, there should be a shift towards capability development, change management, and continuous improvement. The staggering statistic that 70% of large-scale technology transformations fail is a stark reminder of the importance of this shift. This call to action is not just about halting the mindless acquisition of technology. It's about getting real about what an organisation truly needs. It's about making decisions strategically, considering what the team can realistically handle, and what the budget can genuinely support. Skill and strategic application should trump the pursuit of size and quantity. Embracing a balanced and strategic approach The bottom line is clear: cut through the tech envy and focus on what genuinely benefits your organisation. When embarking on a new technology project ensure that you make resource allocations to invest in your team's capabilities, adapt your operating models, and ensure effective change management. In the end, it's about making smart, strategic technology choices that align with your business objectives and enhance your team's ability to deliver results.

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Blog - Thoughts, insights and musings from the LEVO team

LEVO Latest: Federation University’s Website Overhaul

Understanding your target demographic: Key insights from Australia Post’s eCommerce Industry Report 2024

Navigating Challenges and Celebrating Success in Multicultural Teams

Embracing Content Lifecycle Management: A Modern Imperative for Marketing Departments

Things I learnt at Elevate — The Global Commerce Summit™, in Miami

My masterclass experience with United Airlines: a seamless blend of digital and physical touchpoints

The importance of change leadership in technology transformations

Stepping into the future: Reflections of a Women in Tech Scholar at LEVO

The Art of Strategic Play: Empowering Teams and Strategies with LEGO® Serious Play®

Tech FOMO: A call for strategic technology management in marketing