Upcoming Idealized Design Session with Philadelphia Baptist Association
Mission
To empower individuals and communities to enhance their overall well-being through research and education.
Idealized design answers the question, “Ideally, what would we like the program to be?”
Our Story
Our journey began with a simple question: How can we create lasting, meaningful change for individuals, communities, and professionals alike? At our core, we believe that true progress comes from understanding the bigger picture and acting with purpose. Guided by Systems Thinking, Applied Research, and Idealized Design, we unite people to explore connections, uncover insights, and co-create solutions that are both practical and transformative.
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We help individuals design more balanced lives and empower organizations and communities to adapt and thrive. Our work is rooted in collaboration, learning, and continuous improvement. Rather than simply responding to challenges, we reimagine what’s possible and assist others in building it, step by step. Our three transformative programs—Design Routine, Practical Coaching for Accountants, and Artistic Connections—reflect this shared philosophy in action.
Motivation behind these programs
We chose to begin with Design Routine, Practical Coaching for Accountants, and Artistic Connections because each represents a meaningful entry point into real-world systems change—personal, professional, and community-wide. Together, they form a balanced foundation for our mission to make systems thinking and applied research accessible and actionable.
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Design Routine focuses on the individual system—helping people build structure, mindfulness, and resilience in their everyday lives.​
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Practical Coaching for Accountants applies systems thinking to the professional system—where clarity, collaboration, and adaptive processes can create ripple effects across organizations and clients.
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Artistic Connections nurtures the community system—using creativity as a catalyst for empathy, dialogue, and shared transformation.
We started with these three areas because they are fundamental to shaping society: how we live, how we work, and how we connect with one another. By addressing these interconnected layers, the nonprofit shows that meaningful change arises not from isolated efforts, but from designing solutions across systems. This approach fosters collaboration, where learning and creativity work together towards collective well-being.
Steven Freeman
Founder
Author: Steven F. Freeman has written over one hundred articles, two books, and numerous research reports, some of which have had a significant global impact. He is the recipient of five national research awards and received the Project Censored Award for the most important research of 2006.
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Teaching: He offers innovative courses that provide a comprehensive perspective on management issues. His award-winning teaching materials include cases, exercises, field trips, teaching notes, and curricula that foster critical insights and student success. These courses are tailored to meet the needs of individuals at all levels, from high school students to CEOs and university faculty.
Education: - Ph.D. (1998) from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Sloan School of Management, Organization Studies Group. Dissertation: The Decline of the North American Auto Industry. - M.S. (1987) from the University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School, Social Systems Sciences. - B.S. (1984) from the University of Pennsylvania, School of Arts and Sciences.
Anne Marie, NY (USA)
I am pleased to provide a testimonial for the development of a smart tax organizer that utilizes applied research methods. This user-oriented tool significantly simplifies the tax preparation process.By engaging with clients through friendly interviews, we gained valuable insights into their challenges and designed an organizer tailored to their needs. Many clients were dissatisfied with filling out the paper organizers provided by the tax program. The final product is intuitive, guiding users step-by-step and simplifying complex information, making it accessible even for those with minimal financial knowledge.Clients have given positive feedback, appreciating the clarity and organization of their financial data. This not only saves them time but also reduces stress during tax season.Anne MarieAdministrative in an accounting firm
Pradeep Vekria, Gujurat (India)
As the principal of an elementary school in a remote village in India, I have seen firsthand the transformative impact of applied research methods on our arts and crafts workshops. These methods allow us to design engaging activities that not only stimulate creativity but also meet the diverse needs of our students. By implementing evidence-based strategies, we have successfully created an environment rich in collaboration and innovation. Our students are now more confident in expressing their ideas and exploring a variety of materials. I firmly believe in the power of applied research to enhance our curriculum and empower both educators and students.
Sara Vogel, NY (USA)
I have lived in my apartment in New York for many years, and I am grateful for my journey through applied research methods. As an elderly lady, I’ve learned that good habits and routines can greatly enhance one's quality of life. I started exploring these methods to stay organized and engaged in joyful activities. By establishing a daily routine that included organizing my documents, discarding items I haven’t used in decades, and using desktop for daily work instead of my laptop, I’ve made positive changes in my life. I encourage others, especially my peers, to consider how small, thoughtful changes can lead to meaningful improvements.