Boundless Curiosity

Untangling VUCA: Part 1 - Does it still serve us?


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In this episode of Boundless Curiosity, hosts Brandon and Jason dive deep into the concept of VUCA – Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity. Originating from the U.S. military’s strategic thinking in the late 20th century, VUCA has since become a In this episode of Boundless Curiosity, hosts Brandon and Jason dive into the concept of VUCA – Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity. Originating from the U.S. military’s strategic thinking in the late 20th century, VUCA has since become a foundational framework for understanding the chaotic and rapidly changing landscape of modern business and leadership.

We touch on alternative frameworks like TUNA (Turbulent, Uncertain, Novel, Ambiguous) and BANI (Brittle, Anxious, Nonlinear, and Incomprehensible), questioning if military strategies truly fit the business world. Through personal anecdotes, including navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, we explore whether VUCA has become a crutch for poor management or if its relevance has waned over time. How does VUCA affect different sectors and personal lives?

Finally, we discuss the unique challenges brought by rapid technological advancements and global interconnectedness, and how leaders can balance quick execution with strategic reflection. Using examples from industries like healthcare and technology, we set the stage for our next episode, where we'll offer actionable insights on thriving in a VUCA environment. 

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Boundless CuriosityBy Brandon Smith & Jason Smith