Leading change for sustainability: the role of megaprojects and multiplier firms

Abstract

This chapter highlights the roles of multiplier firms and megaprojects in leading change for sustainability in the built environment. Multiplier firms are organizations that offer on-going sustainability solutions to a range of client organizations. Megaprojects are finite-duration initiatives involving multiple organizations in the delivery of a large-scale development, such as a new ecologically sustainable city. Drawing on illustrative case studies of multiplier firms and megaprojects engaged in sustainability-related initiatives, the chapter also explores the value of learning logic—in contrast to blueprint logic—for leading change. Blueprint logic describes a top-down approach to change that relies on well-developed plans, while learning logic involves experimentation, iteration, and sourcing ideas widely to make progress on complex goals. A learning logic is appropriate for leading change for sustainability, because effective techniques for success are not yet know