In a bustling city, a plan to control the cobra population backfires, leading to more cobras than ever before. This 'cobra effect' serves as a metaphor for the unintended consequences of the 'More Right' mindset—our quest for simple solutions in a complex world. As we delve deeper into the allure and limitations of this mindset, we uncover stories from Boeing's corporate shifts to Microsoft's stack-ranking system, illustrating how a focus on narrow metrics can lead to unforeseen challenges. This article explores the balance between reductionism and a holistic view, urging a shift towards embracing the complexity around us for more robust decision-making.

Recently, a CEO asked a data scientist to calculate 35x35 in 10 seconds. This incident, while seemingly minor, highlights a profound misunderstanding in how we utilize our data science teams and the importance of community in tackling complex problems. At Booking.com, we cultivated a community of data-informed individuals, proving that collective intelligence far exceeds individual effort.

Discover the transformative power of embracing being 'Less Wrong' over striving to be 'More Right.' 'The Wisdom of Being Wrong' challenges our fixation on certainty through stories that highlight the value of adaptability, learning from mistakes, and the importance of iterative progress. This exploration encourages a mindset shift towards continuous improvement in our complex world

What are the little things we can do to create a work place culture where everyone feels free to contribute to the best of their abilities?

Join me on a revealing adventure in Florence, where my attempts to master watercolour painting taught me more about life than art. In the aftermath of leaving a long career, I confronted my own overconfidence and rediscovered the joy of learning from scratch. This story isn't just about painting; it's a call to embrace the messiness of learning, the importance of community, and finding humour in our endeavours. Whether you're an artist, a learner, or simply someone in search of inspiration, this tale has something for you.

Are you navigating the complexities of giving constructive feedback? Does your team struggle to deliver high-quality, evidence-based, timely products that resonate with customers? Are you seeking a fresh perspective to reinvigorate your leadership and team performance? I am Roderik Koenders and today I am launching my own company: r.dr.kk. I will offer training services, consulting, and mentoring. Read on to learn how I can help you with your challenges.

9,5 years at Booking.com taught me a lot! In this post I share some of the lessons I learned.