With an increasingly unpredictable future and a real shortage of resources (financial, human, and energy), companies are searching for sustainable solutions. In this context, Qualia Consulting and its Belgian partner Gen7 Academy (formerly BAO Elan Vital) gathered around one hundred decision-makers at the auditorium of the Banque de Luxembourg. On the agenda: the concept of robustness, a strategic lever that remains largely underexplored.
The guest speaker for the evening, biologist Olivier Hamant – a researcher at INRAE and director of the Institut Michel Serres – presented his work inspired by living systems. He demonstrated that, in times of scarcity, the pursuit of ultra-efficiency can in fact become a pitfall. The author of “La 3ème voie du vivant” and “Antidote au culte de la performance” calls for moving beyond a logic centred on short-term optimisation, in favour of systems capable of absorbing shocks and adapting over time – much like nature itself when facing uncertainty and adversity.
“Performance at any cost weakens systems – and therefore organisations,” he explained. As a counterpoint to optimisation-driven approaches, he advocates rostering dialogue and strengthening systemic approaches. Drawing inspiration from living systems reminds us that change can also emerge from what lies on the margins, from the unexpected, and from circumstance. A robust system knows how to adapt.
This presentation was followed by a panel discussion bringing together Olivier Hamant, Carine Dartiguepeyrou (futurist and political scientist), 
Together, they shared their perspectives on how the concept of robustness connects with organisational realities. How can existing models evolve – particularly in terms of leadership, governance, and ways of working?
From a human resources perspective, robustness implies greater diversity, management approaches based on trust and ongoing dialogue, and stronger cooperation dynamics within teams – while also addressing sustainability challenges.
The evening also marked the launch of Gen7 Academy Luxembourg, whose ambition is to contribute to building more robust organisations. It offers concrete solutions structured around three pillars: training programmes focused on quality of work life, transition pathways to support professional evolution, and a coaching school promoting innovative approaches.
Gen7 Academy Luxembourg is an initiative led by Qualia Consulting, in partnership with Gen7 Academy (Belgium), formerly BAO Elan Vital.
For further information, please visit www.gen7academy.lu.
A full version of this article is also available in French.