We draw inspiration from two different sources: First, the intuitive intelligence of animal behavior as observed in Botswana helps us refine UX strategies. Second, the analytical rigor of Cognisights leverages market research, analytics, and user experience across diverse industries (for more details on Cognisights click on the tab above).
Our approach to the study of animal behavior emphasizes principles such as questioning assumptions, staying alert to rapid changes, identifying competitive threats, and precisely targeting audiences
By observing wildlife behaviors — such as the vigilance of zebras, the communication methods of elephants, and the adaptability of giraffes— we develop UX strategies that are efficient, adaptable, and forward-thinking
This nature-inspired methodology aims to help businesses build symbiotic relationships, balance visibility with discretion, and remain resilient in dynamic environments.
Some of the key principals are shown below
Question assumptions and be alert
Question assumptions and be alert
Question assumptions and be alert
Things change so fast that your strategies need to adapt in real time. What was happening six months ago has probably already changed.
Look out for competitive threats
Question assumptions and be alert
Question assumptions and be alert
Competitors often hide in plain sight. Look for signals in your data that indicate they're ready to take the position that you thought you owned.
Target your audience with precision
Members of population segments need to be micro-targeted
Know, don't assume, the pain-points of your customer
Don't be left thinking how did this happen
Just as a zebra’s stripe pattern differentiates itself, reach your audience at an individual level
The biggest don't always win
The lion has been referred to as king of the jungle but the warthog frequently escapes capture
It has become wildly popular on social media for it's agility and ability to avoid the lion's grasp
Five lions were chasing it, but it emerged unscathed. Here it is digging for food after the chase
Size can provide advantages, such as market dominance, but it it does not guarantee success
Smaller companies can experiment with new ideas and pivot, without bureaucratic delays
They can thrive through innovation, agility, and a sharp focus on customer needs and market trends
Listen for signals
Wild dogs are known for their cooperative behavior
They work as a team with each dog playing a specific role
They communicate using a variety of sounds such as twittering, squealing, and barking
They have distinctive, large, rounded ears that are one of their most recognizable features
Their unique ears are crucial for communication with other pack members
Listen for signals in the market and be sensitive to the needs of the team
Build symbiotic relationships
Birds feed on ticks, dead skin, and parasites found on a hippo’s back
Hippos, being large and formidable animals, deter many predators, making birds safer while feeding
For the hippos, the birds help reduce discomfort and infection
These relationships in business foster mutual growth, resilience, and innovation
This creativity leads to groundbreaking solutions and a competitive edge
Symbiotic relationships build ecosystems where businesses thrive together
Balance visibility and discretion
Hippos can hide their massive bodies with just their eyes, ears, and nostrils above the water
This allows them to stay cool under the hot sun and remain alert for predators or threats
Businesses can use subtle branding that resonates only with the target audience
Keep a low profile in non-core areas while maintaining a strong presence in key strategic markets
Observe trends from a “hidden” position, and be prepared to act while unnoticed by competitors
Withstand market downturns
Termite mounds in Botswana, where seasonal rains are common, play a critical ecological role
They rise above the surrounding terrain, creating natural rock-like islands where vegetation grows
Marvels of collaborative engineering, their internal ventilation systems regulate temperature
The mounds offer refuge for animals such the leopard sitting in the shade with plentiful plant life
Termite mounds create ecosystems that benefit plants, animals, and the environment
They endure floods and droughts. Similarly, businesses must withstand disruption of market downturns
Businesses are an ecosystem of suppliers, customers, the environment and community
Create collaborative, resilient, and sustainable platforms for innovation and growth
Make things easy to find
Baboons, such as this one carrying her child, are highly skilled at remembering locations for food
They “organize” tools - e.g., rocks for cracking nuts or preparing meals
They create order within their environments
UX strategy should provide consistent, predictable navigation paths
Ensure the most-used features and information are prominently displayed and easy to access
Streamline processes (e.g., checkout flow, account setup, app discovery) to eliminate frustration
The importance of feminine energy and perspective
The cheetah strongly embodies feminine energy, particularly in Botswana
It is also the fastest land animal in the world and can reach speeds of up to 70 miles per hour
Female cheetahs are solitary hunters, relying on their own skills and instincts to survive
They have stealth and focus, mirroring women's determined leadership styles
This feminine perspective brings innovative and rapid solutions to complex problems
Avoid bureaucratic structure
Don't make decisions go through multiple levels of management
Innovation requires an exchange of ideas between disciplines, and siloed organizations stifle it
People become too focused on compliance
Focus on outcomes not processes
Create a versatile and accommodating work environment
Embrace a flexible and empowered workplace
Encourage creativity and risk-taking
Don't waste time on endless workshops
Workshops drag on, for hours and often days
Resulting in yawns and boredom
And unfortunately lack of engagement
This creates the illusion of getting work done, yet in reality little is accomplished
Workshops are a costly investment with low ROI
Instead, share the material online and in advance
Limit duration to two hours maximum
Participate remotely and set key deliverables
Increase efficiency and lower travel costs
