Understanding Systems Thinking to Prevent Tech Disasters: From Frog to the Gates Foundation

Sheryl Cababa drives a human-centered design practice that is focused on systems thinking and evidence-based design, working on everything from robotic surgery experience design to reimagining K-12 education through service design. In her work with consultancies such as Substantial, Frog, and Adaptive Path, she has worked with a diverse base of clients including the Gates Foundation, Microsoft, IHME, and IKEA. Chapters:(00:00:00) Sheryl’s Background: Microsoft, Fitbit, Adaptive Path(00:04:18) Working for Philips and living in the Netherlands(00:07:10) Consulting vs Tech(00:11:30) Running her own practice(00:16:29) Systems thinking for design(00:20:02) Thinking about power and inclusion(00:22:20) Subject matter experts and people impacted by the system(00:26:05) Being critical is villainized in tech & AI (00:29:30) Companies that are not receptive(00:35:19) How designers can adopt systems thinking(00:40:23) Edtech example — Work within the system(00:42:59) Why technology isn’t the best first solution (00:48:02) Shortcomings of capitalism (00:48:02) Stakeholder Mapping: Power + Influence(01:06:19) Lightning Round Where to find Sheryl:Sheryl’s LinkedinClosing the Loop (book) ___________________________________________________________I'm Sera Tajima, Climate Tech Advisor & Investor. 🤙I talk about: → Product Growth Strategy (Growth, Design, AI)→ Climate Tech→ Venture Capital⁠Connect for more good energy⁠ ⚡️Become a sponsor: [email protected]