Peeling away complexity – a visionary look at agility, simplicity, and more.

Hi, I’m Neil Walker — welcome.
This is my space to explore the real work of transformation: leading with agility, thinking in systems, and building better ways of working.
For over 30 years, I’ve helped organizations—from financial services to frontline social care—navigate complexity, adopt agile and product mindsets, and drive meaningful change that lasts. I’ve worked across the board: from coaching teams to advising execs, from recovering failing programmes to shaping new operating models.
Since the early 2000s, I’ve been writing and speaking about agile, business agility, and transformation—long before they were hashtags. I’ve shared ideas, sparked conversations, and built communities (even before Twitter became “X”).
What ties it all together? A deep belief in the power of simplicity, adaptability, and human-centered change.
Whether you’re here to learn, rethink, or just get unstuck—you’re in good company.
Latest insights
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Beyond “Agile”: Embracing Dynamic, Evolving, Adaptable, and Disruptive Ways of Working
The idea of moving beyond the “Agile” label resonates deeply, especially as Agile has grown far beyond its original definition. I responded to a post by Management 3.0, but pondered later in the day and quickly wrote this. Enjoy. For…
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Above and Beyond VUCA: The Rise of BANI, RUPT, TUNA. And Why CIRCA Is Different
In the ever-shifting landscape of business and leadership, frameworks like VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) have long helped us make sense of turbulence. But as disruption intensifies and new challenges emerge, fresh acronyms-BANI, RUPT, and TUNA-have entered the scene, each…
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Autonomy: The Cornerstone of Agility
So very true, Daniel Pink. When leaders see autonomy as a core part of their strategy—not just a “nice to have”—they unlock higher engagement, better results, and a thriving culture. Over the last three decades, I’ve come to view autonomy…
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Beware the Butterfly Syndrome: A Reality Check on Agile Transformation
Just over a decade ago, I wrote a post Agile Transformation: Not a Caterpillar Turning Into a Butterfly based on the observations of “Agile transformations” being less like caterpillars—destined to transform into beautiful butterflies. I sought to dispel the myth…
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The Future of Business: Sailing Beyond the Horizon with Agility
This is a follow-up article to The Shifting Winds of Business: Why Agility is No Longer Optional, from last month. The America’s Cup has always been a proving ground for innovation. From sleek hull designs to towering wing sails, these…
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Thriving in Turbulent Times: Principles of Agility for Uncertain Worlds
In a world marked by relentless turbulence and uncertainty, organizations must adapt, innovate, and evolve. The pace of change isn’t slowing—if anything, it’s accelerating. To respond effectively, being “agile” is helpful, but it’s not sufficient for true success. We must…
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Navigating the Choppy Waters: Overcoming the Challenges of Agility
This is a follow-up article to The Shifting Winds of Business: Why Agility is No Longer Optional, from last month. The America’s Cup isn’t won on calm seas. The most skilled sailors face treacherous conditions: sudden gusts, rogue waves, equipment…
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