As part of these experiments, and similar efforts initiated by organizations around the world during the pandemic, professional silos tumbled down, and traditional hierarchies, structures, and procedures were reimagined. The workforce thrived under pressure and came away energized by new possibilities. This success naturally raises important questions: can organizations mobilize themselves to run short-burst, virtual collaboration modules under “normal” circumstances, and not just during crisis mode? And can their efforts achieve more than addressing a one-off challenge—instead serving as a catalyst of deeper organizational transformation? My research suggests the answers are yes, but only if leaders understand what these efforts are, what they aren’t, and how to design them for optimal efficiency and creativity.

The new remote world has changed the way many of us work, which means not only are soft skills such as communication and creativity more important, but the way in which we exhibit or demonstrate these skills is changing, too.

Smiddy is the son of the late Papa Joe Smiddy, a university chancellor, Appalachian music preservationist, and banjo player—a legend. Dr. Smiddy has played music all his life; it would make no sense to him not to incorporate it into the healthcare he administers.