Pascale Van Damme on International Women’s Day: ‘Diversity drives innovation.’
Today’s world is characterised by an unprecedented acceleration in technological innovation. Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the way companies operate, make decisions and create value. Yet, according to Pascale Van Damme, the key to real progress does not lie in technology alone.
In her opinion piece in Trends, she emphasises that technology only truly delivers results when organisations are strong, inclusive and agile enough to give it direction
“Technology is an accelerator of our intelligence, not a replacement for it,” she writes.
According to Van Damme, this highlights a key challenge for companies: not confusing speed with progress. Many transformation efforts fail not because of the technology itself, but because of organisational culture, collaboration and internal support.
That is why she advocates a broader view of innovation. In a complex economy, different perspectives and backgrounds are becoming increasingly valuable. In her view, diversity is not a symbolic ambition, but a strategic lever for better decision-making, stronger teams and sustainable growth.
In her editorial, Van Damme introduces the ACE concept, which she considers essential for successful innovation:
- Artificial Intelligence to work smarter and faster
- Cultural Intelligence to bring different perspectives together
- Emotional Intelligence to strengthen trust and collaboration
Van Damme also sees how technology and collaboration are becoming increasingly intertwined in the construction sector. Digital models, data and new ways of working make it possible for designers, engineers and contractors to collaborate from day one.
But precisely for that reason, leadership is becoming more important than ever.
On International Women’s Day, Van Damme reflects on qualities that have historically often been labelled as “soft skills”, such as listening, connecting and empathy. According to her, these very skills are becoming crucial for organisations that want to successfully navigate a world of rapid technological change.
In Trends, Pascale Van Damme also engages in a conversation with Bart Steukers, CEO of Agoria, about the impact of artificial intelligence on work, talent and the future of companies.
