UX Collective | Medium
Follow
What does it mean to be an expert in motion?
Donald Schön's work focuses on how professionals adapt when plans fail, contrasting with the traditional view of expertise. He observed that true expertise isn't about following a rigid method, but about adjusting to unexpected changes. Schön introduced "reflection-in-action," describing how experts make real-time decisions, reading situations and responding to them. This skill involves recognizing patterns and knowing when to modify the approach. This contrasts with the pitfalls of overly rigid processes like Design Thinking, Six Sigma, and vague AI principles, which stifle adaptability. The text highlights that reflection-in-action is crucial because it's revealed in the moment, a skill that systems often overlook. This ability to stay present amidst changing conditions is important for professionals, as they earn trust by meeting shifts as they happen. This is the essence of being an "expert in motion." It's about releasing control when needed and adapting to keep the work going. Schön's work provides the language to describe this often invisible form of expertise. It’s not about pre-planned precision, but live judgment, present, and accountable.