From the Labs to the Loop

Hi there,

Elise and Dave here. We have exciting news to share!

From Elise: I’ll start with some background. 😀 

In 2023, we launched the New Rules for Work experiment together. Our goal was to challenge a research project that said Zoom kills creativity, which we did through two conferences, twenty-six experimental workshops, and your help. While there’s still data analysis underway, we achieved our goal! 🥳 

We set up this Labs publication to share what we learned. The experiment connected us with fascinating folks and opened up many new avenues of inquiry. In 2024, we’re building on those insights and expanding our investigations into the changing nature of work and collaboration.

As partners, our collaboration was born from a difference of opinion. Dave challenged the original study researchers, and I invited those researchers to work with us. Dave and my differing interests, approaches, and unique gifts brought variety and richness to our partnership in 2023.

Now that we’ve achieved our original goal, we’re ready to refocus on where we each excel.

Explore in the Labs. Then, Close the Loop.

I relish diving deep into complex topics with interesting people and creating new frameworks and tools. I aim to provoke thought and inspire practical improvements in teamwork and organizational practices, especially when those practices require complex adaptive creativity.

Sadly, I can’t draw for beans. Dave shines there.

Dave also has a gift for finding the story and simple visuals that make it easy for people to try out new ideas. He does a beautiful job for those seeking more practice than theory.

A publication about emerging theory and practice isn’t the same as a publication about simplifying practice. So, to ensure both get the focus they deserve, we’re separating our efforts. We’ll continue to collaborate on some things, but for the most part, I (Elise) will run the Labs while Dave makes sure to close the Loop.

Dave - tell them about the Loop!

Thanks, Elise.

The Loop is where theory meets practice. It’s where we take the insights, frameworks, and tools developed in the Labs and bring them to life in a practical, actionable way. Think of it as the bridge between cutting-edge research and real-world application.

Building on the foundational work from Harvard Business Review, MITSloan Management Review and other leading management publications, we ensure that the knowledge and strategies you gain are rooted in the most credible and advanced research available.

In the Loop, you’ll find hands-on guides, case studies, and visual aids designed to help you implement the latest thinking in your own work or organization. Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for new ways to innovate or a beginner eager to learn, the Loop has something for you.

Our goal with the Loop is simple: to empower you to make meaningful change in your work and life by providing you with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration you need to succeed.

The Loop is not just another management resource—it's a dynamic platform that revolutionizes the way organizations access and apply the latest research and innovation. In a world where businesses are struggling to keep up with rapid changes and evolving challenges, the Loop offers a breath of fresh air.

So, if you’re ready to take your ideas from theory to practice, join us in the Loop and let’s make a difference.

Thank you all for your attention and support! We look forward to continuing the conversation with you in the Labs and the Loop, and welcome your questions.

~ Elise Keith & Dave Mastronardi

The New Rules for Work Labs are made possible through sponsorship and member contributions. Thank you.