In the first convergent phase of the design double diamond, we focused on narrowing down and selecting a specific direction from the initial divergent phase (Business Unusual: Crossing the Boundaries of the Known) that has the potential to advance our project. This step required prioritising a key theme and deciding where to direct our energy and resources.
Meeting with Martin: Discussion, Comparison, and Decision
Martin and I met online (30 November 2025) to analyse the themes generated during the first divergent phase. We reviewed the ideas and evaluated them thoroughly, focusing on which direction resonated most strongly, demonstrated significant potential, and provided a clear purpose for further development.
Martin had several favourites, including:
- Local Time Economy: An economy built around the concept of localised “time.”
- Ecosystem Restoration Corporation: A society dedicated to the restoration of ecosystems.
- Food Waste Regenerative Network: A regenerative economic network addressing food waste.
- Cybersecurity Co-Op: A cooperative approach to cybersecurity.
- Global Peace Transformation Economy and UN Reform: A global economic model for peace transformation and United Nations reform.
From these options, we initially aligned on the Local Time Economy. However, after deeper discussion, we both gravitated towards the Ecosystem Restoration Corporation concept, which offered practical feasibility and a strong connection to pressing global challenges.
Ecosystem Restoration Corporation: Why This Theme?
Following an ad hoc analysis, we identified several key advantages of focusing on a corporation dedicated to ecosystem restoration:
- Practical Feasibility: The concept allows for a relatively quick start on a smaller scale with the potential for scaling up.
- Timeliness: The restoration of natural ecosystems is a critical issue that resonates with the public, investors, and policymakers alike.
- Broad Collaboration Opportunities: The project could unite experts from environmental science, technology, and community development.
- Clear Benefits: It directly addresses pressing issues such as soil degradation, biodiversity loss, and climate change.
Next Steps: Space for Deeper Exploration
Our goal is to further develop the theme (the second divergent phase of the Double Diamond design process—“ideation”) and prepare materials for the subsequent phase (validation or delivery of a finished proposal/concept). Specifically, we have outlined the following tasks:
- Identify Similar Existing Projects: Conduct research to determine whether similar initiatives already exist, how they are structured, and where opportunities for innovation lie.
- Draft a Preliminary Concept: Focus on defining key mechanisms, a potential organisational structure, and identifying the main stakeholders.
- Prepare Materials for the Next Meeting: Develop more detailed ideas that will enable us to move forward in the Double Diamond design process.
Our next meeting is scheduled for Saturday, 7 December 2025, where we will delve into more concrete proposals.
Conclusion: A Step Towards Meaningful Business
The first convergent phase has led us to a key decision that shapes the next steps of our project. The selection of the Ecosystem Restoration Corporation is not solely about restoring nature—it represents an opportunity to create a systemic approach that integrates environmental responsibility, innovation, and community engagement. Our task now is to deepen this idea so it can become the foundation of a sustainable and actionable initiative.