Thinking Space

At Denkraum, we combine stories with theories, creating a space where new perspectives emerge. Here, we think, explore, and create together—in an interdisciplinary, creative way that transcends conventional boundaries. Amid warm colors, a flexible spatial design, and modern technology, vision and reality come together.

The Danish writer Inger Christensen explained that, “as a human being, I am constantly confronted with various forms of systems.” She wanted to write poems “that are a combination of the world and myself” and that “are different from when I simply write from my own private world.” Even in the “thinking space,” people think because they combine theories about the world with stories from their own world. While a story invites us to identify with the narrators and experience the narrative from an internal perspective, theory opens up the possibility of adopting an external perspective. From this external perspective, we look objectively at what is being told, finding explanations and systems. Thus, we think through the projects in the “thinking space” within a spatiotemporal order and think in stories that extend beyond space and time.

The project brings knowledge to life within business processes to foster a work culture characterized by openness and diversity. This results in a knowledge management concept that not only stores knowledge but also cultivates it at all levels of an organization. To visualize tacit knowledge, the project draws on pattern theory, which was founded by architect C. Alexander. By jointly constructing patterns and a pattern language and using them for visualization, companies reflect on their current processes. In doing so, the pattern language empowers companies to independently design business processes in which meaning is experienced both individually and collectively. To achieve this, the concept of “Aesthetic Business Processes” must be derived, a concept that places the uniqueness of employees at the center. The value of the project becomes apparent when new perspectives emerge through holistic learning at all levels of an organization.

Further Information

What are the topics covered in the “Map & Model” training program?

The program centers on the insight that employees’ values, experiences, visions, and knowledge are particularly reflected in their daily routines. These routines are often the key to sustainable success. But how can they be captured, analyzed, and shared? The ProlOg team has developed an innovative visualization method for this purpose: ProlOg “Map & Model” is a hands-on tool that captures and maps business processes using symbols, pictograms, and structured questions.

The method works in a playful way: On a kind of game board, participants can depict their workflows step by step. This creates a visual, interactive picture of their processes that opens up new perspectives and facilitates discussion. This allows companies not only to reflect on their own best practices but also to gain inspiration for sustainable changes.

In this way, ProLOg helps organizations become not only more efficient but also more dynamic—with processes that are people-centered.

Further Information & Registration

Atmosphere: The “Denkraum”is a conference room that can accommodate up to 20 people. The “Denkraum” is designed to be unobtrusive, allowing us to experience stories with empathy and follow the logic of theories. Warm tones and earth tones blend together to create a setting that is both warm and comfortable, yet subtle and sophisticated. The “Denkraum” features a flexible layout that can be easily adapted to the type of event. As for the lighting, the focus was on bright, natural light. All the lights in the Denkraum are dimmable. The texture of the materials used creates contrasts that foster a meaningful atmosphere where we enjoy coming together and thinking collectively.

Features: The technologies in the Think Space are designed to support various styles of collaborative thinking. Knowledge can be illustrated using a flip chart, smartboard, video wall, and an integrated sound system. A camera system can connect physically present teams with virtual teams. Ultimately, the Think Space prioritizes the individual. Analog media, such as books or walls that can be written on by hand, are intended to expand the digital possibilities and meet the needs of as many people as possible. The furniture in the Thinking Space includes a fold-away conference table and rolling stools that can be moved to accommodate different room configurations.

Emden/Leer University of Applied Sciences - School of Engineering - Department of Mechanical Engineering

Denkraum T153

Constantiaplatz 4

26723 Emden