The TR-808 drum machine, initially dismissed by its creators, transformed into a cultural icon as artists embraced its unique sound, illustrating a key lesson in innovation management: early forms often fail under existing evaluation systems. This newsletter explores the importance of speculative prototyping, allowing organizations to protect and test unconventional ideas without immediate commitment. It also highlights an upcoming seminar on AI governance, discussing the fragmented nature of AI regulation and the implications of private companies drafting constitutions...
newsletter discovery
Mar 30, 2026
Embrace strategic imagination as a core organizational function to navigate the complexities of AI and productivity, turning insights into tangible actions.
The word of the week is "Brain Fry," a term capturing the mental exhaustion from information overload and cognitive strain. This edition introduces a new feature, "Signals," aimed at fostering strategic thinking about the future through short workbooks. Readers are encouraged to participate in the upcoming workshop, "Pitch, Picture, Prototype," designed to help materialize ideas and practices. The newsletter also reflects on the author's ongoing project, which has evolved into a book-like artifact that explores the integration of...
newsletter discovery
Mar 26, 2026
This workshop offers a practical framework for individuals seeking to initiate or rejuvenate creative projects, emphasizing hands-on work and community engagement.
Are you contemplating your next big project or a career shift? This workshop led by Carl DiSalvo, Lisa Hair Konishi, and Julian is designed to help you connect with your vision and bring it to life. With a hands-on approach, participants will engage in practical exercises to develop a clear focus and create a 30-day plan for prototyping a community that fosters feedback and accountability. The workshop is ideal for anyone looking to start or restart something meaningful,...
newsletter discovery
Mar 23, 2026
Organizational imagination is crucial for innovation; speculative prototyping can challenge existing categories and perceptions, enabling organizations to adapt and thrive.
This edition explores the significance of organizational imagination and speculative prototyping, drawing on references from Borges and Foucault to illustrate how these concepts can disrupt conventional thinking. It emphasizes the importance of building a capacity for speculation within organizations to foster innovation and product development. The discussion highlights the value of speculative prototypes in challenging existing categories and perceptions, making the case for their role in reframing market categories and product theses. Additionally, it introduces the forthcoming workshop...
newsletter discovery
Mar 18, 2026
Transform your ideas into actionable projects through structured exercises, community support, and creative exploration.
Join Carl DiSalvo for an engaging Info Session tomorrow at 10:00 AM (UTC-7) to explore the upcoming workshop, "Pitch, Picture, Prototype." This workshop is designed to help participants articulate their ideas, visualize them in detail, and create experiments that bring concepts to life. Attendees will engage in guided exercises that foster thoughtful prompts and practical tools, ensuring they leave with a clear plan and momentum for their creative careers. The session emphasizes strategic thinking combined with hands-on making,...
newsletter discovery
Mar 16, 2026
Articulate your value and story through tangible artifacts in a workshop designed for clarity in uncertain times.
This edition highlights a professional development workshop titled "Pitch, Picture, Prototype," aimed at helping individuals articulate their value and story amidst uncertainty. Led by Carl DiSalvo, Ph.D., the workshop focuses on creating tangible artifacts and signals that represent personal and professional aspirations. An info session is scheduled for March 20th, providing an overview of the workshop's objectives. Additionally, it features the Sony ONE Oraculator Portable, a cutting-edge device designed for insightful guidance, and introduces "The Luddite Dispatch," a...