INTERNATIONAL STRATEGY AGENCY
WE TRANSFORM: BUSINESSES. USER EXPERIENCE. BRANDS
We create impact through strategy and design.
Whoever wants to become successful has no other choice but to deal with the issues of the times. It really is a long way to go for sure. The challenges of our modern world are becoming complex by the minute for many companies. In many ramifications as digitalisation, globalisation, sustainability, diversity and leadership, there is an apparent lack of resources and know-how to cope with these changes.
Are you looking to ground a company that is sustainable and future-oriented?
Then why don’t you let our team of innovation experts, communication strategists and human resources managers help you get on track. We develop with you strategies for mindset development, change management and social impact - everything you need to gain new perspectives, discover future-oriented business models and create holistic structures.
Please feel free to arrange a free on-site or online 2-hour session with us. We will be happy to visit you or work with you online to develop approaches to tackle your current challenges. You can find more online offers here.
THEMES
Transformation
The effects of digital transformation are seen all across the world. What many fail to recognise however is that softwares and processes are only the tip of the iceberg, in reality true transformation is a matter of culture.
mindset
The power of habits - attitude makes the difference. We know this from sporting events. The attitude is reflected in the fighting spirit and determines the result. Today's world is less defined by clearly marked out tasks, but requires thought, proactivity, passion and flexibility.
new work
The world of work is changing. Agility and customer proximity are more important for companies and employees now than ever. Therefore, new forms of work that encourage collaboration and innovation and emphasise flexibility in the forefront are emerging.
CommuniCation
Strategy is communication and without a clear concept of communication, strategy remains nothing but an idea that will never achieve its full potential. Employees and markets need to know their position and orientation so that they can optimally implement their impact.
Design
Positioning defines your unique position and is the breeding ground for which your partners and customers not only hire and pay you, but also for why you become irreplaceable to them.
„“We believe in the potency of value creation and the power of synergy”“
MORE STORIES ON OUR BLOG ON MEDIUM.COM
WHY LUMEN
What We Do
At Lumen, each partner offers specialized expertise as a trusted advisor in strategic transformation, corporate culture, communication, leadership development and AI implementation. We are privileged to work with industry leaders such as Roche, Deutsche Telekom, Klüber, REWE Digital, Yunus Social Business, as well as impact startups and social welfare organizations.
With over 25 years' experience in corporate culture, communications and design,
we help organizations navigate complex challenges in a VUCA and BANI world,
leveraging GenAI technology and leadership skills to drive sustainable growth.
Who do we work for
Our clients are impact leaders - whether they are multinational corporations, innovative SMEs or ambitious start-ups. They come to us not just for one-off solutions, but for fresh perspectives and guidance on how to create lasting change.
What We Know
Our businesses are constantly challenged—and we know that deeper change is inevitable. After the pandemic, there was no respite for business. Now, we face new drivers such as GenAI, evolving GenZ expectations, a shortage of experienced leaders, resource constraints, supply chain disruptions, and unfinished Agile transformations.
At Lumen, we believe that theory holds value only when effectively applied.
With over 60,000 hours of consulting across diverse industries, we bring proven, tested methods to every challenge. Our expertise spans corporate strategy, AI integration, and leadership coaching, all grounded in practical experience—not hypothetical models. We know what works because we’ve implemented it successfully time and again.
What We Believe
We believe there is no success without communication. Whether internal or external, communication does not have to be cliche and this is why we at Lumen, believe in the crafting of strategic and creative communication aimed at both target audiences and employees.
We also believe in the transformation of mindsets and since corporate culture is not an explicitly defined phenomenon, we believe that every organisation is responsible for shaping its own mindset, which in turn, is a reflection of the corporate culture. This is why we are founded on the ideals of Transformation, Mindset, Corporate Culture, HR and New Work, Co-working, Strategic Communication amongst others.
TRANSFORMATION: ENABLING CHANGE
neW PATHS – neW LOGIC
Whether the transformation you want to achieve is digital or global, whether you want to be more innovative, agile, or scalable, our team of communications strategists, innovation experts, and human resources managers work step-by-step with you throughout the implementation process.
change management
In the words of Peter Drucker, "culture eats strategy for breakfast." We all know what this means in everyday business. All the more reason we specialise in corporate culture because that's the key to attaining real impact.
THE HURDLES
Studies are unanimous - the most notorious challenges for change are mindset and workforce competence. Microsoft, McKinsey and Capgemini all confirm this. It is the negligible factors that prevent or enable transformation. This is where our strength lies.
THE HIGH COST
Unprofessional transformation hurts. According to forecasting models, inadequate approaches in organisational development can cost you up to 20% or more of sales. Reach out to us and we'll be glad to prepare the cost-benefit analysis for your case.
MINDSET - THE MINDSET IS DECISIVE
Mindset matters
The attitude makes the difference. We know this from sporting events. The attitude is reflected in the fighting spirit and determines the result. Progress arises where strategy and mindset pay for the same goal. Our simple key formula is: success in change = strategy + communication + empowerment.
CLEAR EXPECTATIONS
In companies, we see the mindset in the way employees go about their jobs. Today's world is less defined by clearly defined tasks, but requires thought, proactivity, passion and flexibility. We translate your strategy into crystal-clear communication for your employees.
COMMON ORIENTATION
When an organisation pushes in a direction,
it is almost unstoppable. Instead of politics, protection of assets and reactivity, what companies in transition need is a powerful orientation. The co-development of Mindsets is our basic discipline and our passion.
THE NUMBERS BEHIND THE MINDSET
Even with a mellow topic such as Mindset, there are clear indicators (KPIs). We have developed transparent measuring points to evaluate how much effect a common mindset has on sales, employee and customer satisfaction and the innovative strength of the organisation. Studies show an impact of 20-40% on sales, 20% on productivity and 50% on innovation. This is confirmed by our references.
Mindset: What enriches a common orientation?
A clear vision and mission
A thought-out and well-designed communication at all levels
Transparent program and project planning
Seems complex? Contact us and we'll deliver everything you need from one source.
NEW WORK
NeW TIMES
Did you know that only 13 of the 30 DAX companies from 30 years ago are still in operation? More than half of them have either merged or downsized. And the speed of such occurrences is significantly increasing with the advancement of globalisation and digitalization. New media and big data are forcefully opening the doors into established organisations - while young employees are coming up with different expectations than they were 30 years ago.
THE CULTURAL revolution
Employees of today expect a different set of values from companies; freedom of design, purpose, collaboration and work-life balance. Start-ups and co-working spaces speak to this generation's needs in contrast with the slow mills of traditional organisations. The future is already here and we have learnt from it.
Flexible Models are Growing
Last year, there were nearly 15,000 co-working spaces worldwide, whereas 5 years ago there were only about 3,000 of them. Where do all these users come from? From traditional companies, of course! Working people today are often willing to take risks and design their world - and unfortunately mostly outside grown structures. Entrepreneurship is booming and creative minds are making their way.
new work PAYS OFF
For years, studies have shown that only a fraction of the workforce is “engaged.” And the rest? Benevolent, neutral or inwardly resigned. But in the environment of New Work, it is the other way around - 84% are "engaged" there. If certain skills become scarce in the future, it needs a good environment to attract the best. Talk to us - our case studies show how startups act, what hurdles they overcome and how companies can update their culture.
STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION
Strategy is communication and without a clear concept of communication, strategy remains nothing but an idea that will never achieve its full potential. Employees and markets need to know their position and orientation so that they can optimally implement their impact.
For more about the communicative side of Lumen and our references,
go to www.lumen-design.de
Strategy Development and ClariTY
We work with you to clarify your strategy and moderate your process. We pay attention to clarity and momentum in your organisation.
CommuniCation planNING
All stakeholders need clear messages and relevant content. We work with your teams on how to broaden and intensify your strategy.
positionING
And rollout
We produce media and content that help you can portray yourself both internally and externally the clearest way possible. In today's media flood, we focus on clarity and attention to your messages.
DESIGN
POSITIONING IS ORIENTATION
How do our customers, employees and partners perceive us? And how do we want to position ourselves? What are our unique selling points? What added value do we offer? For which services are we too easily replaceable? Where do we have to improve? In what areas are we already excelling - and nobody knows? These are the positioning questions you need to ask!
Naming, Branding, Positioning, Shop, Photography and Social Media © Lumen
Positioning is Key
Positioning helps to set up one's own positioning in communicative patterns and relationships. It is more than branding and marketing, it defines and explores the unique position - your value proposition. It is the breeding ground for which your partners and customers not only hire and pay you, but also why you become irreplaceable for them. It views your product and service portfolio (i.e., explicit "value propositions") in the same degree it views less visible yet noticeable factors such as know-how, skills and mindset, lived values and corporate culture. The positioning also provides the content for your employer branding. Employer Branding.
Mindset and positioning design © Lumen
Positioning Needs Accompaniment
Observation needs an observer. Far too often, we succumb to the false notion that we have a complete picture of ourselves. There is a need here for fresh views from the outside, which enables an independent stocktaking and evaluation, helps to shape the further process and can "moderate" the interests involved.
A positioning process takes time if it is to be thoroughly prepared and implemented. Ultimately, we want to get everyone involved and communicate to them the positioning and their strategy both internally and externally.
Positioning Needs Experience
Not only do we have a set of tools, we also have several years of experience in strategy processes that can surely help you. Whether portfolio analysis, new branding, indoor or outdoor positioning, we are happy to be of great assistance to you. Contact us, we are willing to share with you our many references from industry, pharmaceuticals, social enterprises, investment and change projects.
How We Work
To achieve sustainable change, we follow a three-step process.
We rely on co-creation and guide your leadership teams through this entire process:
TAKE STOCK
We get to know your organisation and understand the peculiarities of your playing field. With workshops, interviews and analyses, we achieve a deep understanding of your position and demands.
DEVELOP SOLUTIONS
Our aim is to work with you on developing pragmatic and sustainable solutions. We bring strategy and transformation together with training, positioning and change management. Our experience affords you a comparison with similar organisations.
IMPLEMENT & MONITOR
We lead the implementation of your agenda and manage the process up to your break-even point and eventually to success. We produce content and media, train and coach, organise events and workshops. Your impact is our success!
FOR WHOM
Entrepreneurs & Startups
From business development to human resources strategy and corporate law, we counsel startups and entrepreneurs through their ideation processes, validate their initial approaches and help them find a clear strategy. With our broad experience in the Mergers and Acquisitions as well as Venture Capital sectors, we are your go-to when it comes to financing and structuring issues.
We are constantly reminded that the culture is the game changer. Without agility, startups stand the risk of stagnation. Here, we build bridges in the big organisations of this world and help to develop the culture in established circles. Talk to us, we would very much like to share our experiences with you.
NPOs & SOCIAL BUSINESSES
In the areas of organisational development, strategy, communication, digitalisation and innovation, we have served large non-profit organisations, institutions and social enterprises as consultants for more than 10 years.
Our claim at Lumen Partners is that we not only consult, but also bring in our own practical experiences as examples and proof-of-concept. We like to think of ourselves as craftsmen and not consultants. This means that we do not just preach “change”, but rather showcase our own projects, programs and foundations that have been brought to life to serve as visual proof and reference. From these experiences, market observations and comprehensive studies, we derive our approach and contextualize it in the respective contexts.
CHURCHES
Whether it be ecumenical fora, regional churches or comprehensive digital strategies, you are sure to benefit from our many years of experience in ecclesiastical and charity projects, but also from socio-economic contexts. Discover more in our references.
Over the last 10 years, Lumen has facilitated alongside local communities, cultural initiatives, nonprofit organisations and several state churches discourses in church, diaconal and social business environments. Our own foundations range from fresh X, "Fresh Expression of Church" in coffee, casino and co-working spaces to social-diaconal initiatives, communities, share houses, networks and charitable initiatives for cultural change.
Contact us, we will be glad to receive you in Wiesbaden, Heidelberg, Hanover or in Berlin or we can come to you.
CORPORATES
Today's world is less influenced by clearly defined tasks, yet it requires a lot of thought, proactivity, passion and flexibility. On such topic as mindset, there are clear numbers (KPIs). We have developed clear measuring points on how a common mindset affects sales, employee and customer satisfaction and the innovative strength of an organisation.
Whether the transformation is digital or global, whether you want to be more innovative, agile, or scalable, our team of communications strategists, innovation experts, and human resources managers will work with you throughout the implementation process.
We specialise in topics and tools such as Mindset, OKRs, Transformation, New Work, etc. We believe they are the most effective approach to achieving real impact. Our case studies show how companies act, what obstacles they overcome and how companies can update their culture. Talk to us.
INDIVIDUALS
He who refuses to develop and learn consistently will eventually become a stumbling block for the growth of his team and his organisation. Trainings, books and videos could possibly help. However, they are often inapplicable for your own situation. As a rule, an executive is responsible for his own development and there is often nobody who meticulously watches out for them. And most employees find it difficult to give helpful feedback.
Nothing beats practice. The more responsibility we carry, the more we are able to learn. This is exactly where the leadership profile comes in to provide orientation for further development. Take the leadership test here.
ABOUT THE LUMEN PARTNERS TEAM
Meet The Partners
Lumen is a collective of experienced partners who have garnered a wealth of experience as entrepreneurs and investors in various scenes ranging from Co-working Spaces to Social Business to Creativity and Design, HR and Strategy Consulting.
Marlin Watling – Strategy & HR
With over 15 years of experience in Strategy and Personnel Management, Marlin has worked with large corporations across the expanse of diverse fields ranging from IT and Software, Services, Financial Investment, Construction, Pharma to Supply Chain and Medtech.
He has to his credit an incredible estimate of 10,000 hours of consulting in the field of Change Management, Mindset, Transformation, Strategy, Skills, Staffing, Structure and New Work.
Dominik HofmanN – ENTREPRENEURSHIP
More than half a decade as a founder, community builder and entrepreneur, Dominik established the Coworking Space Heimathafen Wiesbaden, a hub for the innovation community in the Rhein-Main region. He is an ardent supporter of startups, corporations and communities, setting up conducive eco-systems for the advancement of innovation and entrepreneurship.
He also serves as a college lecturer, teaching on the subject “Strategies for Future Markets”.
Klaus Motoki Tonn – FOUNDER
Serving as a senior lead at the Landeskirche Hannovers and sh|ft, Motoki is laden with the desire to be a pioneer on many fronts.
He has gone ahead to found Lumen Design and Lumen Partners alongside many other agencies, organisations and initiatives that remain fully in operation till date.
Although he may seem younger in appearance, he has gained more than 20 years of experience in strategic communication, innovation design and entrepreneurship. The first half of his professional life, he worked as a corporate lawyer for large corporations in the fields of M&A, IT and Investor Relations. He is currently writing his PhD project in the field of Digitalization Strategies and is in a publishing deal with Springer Gabler on a publication on Mindset.
OUR IMPACT
Lumen transforms businesses, cultures and minds.
We bring innovation, agility, digital mindset and purpose into the heart of organisations and we haven’t even started yet.
At Lumen, our commitment is to your success. Our formidable track record proves that achieving sustainable change is not rocket science. This is what we do. We take your investment in our services seriously and are absolutely certain of a long-term ROI.
RETURN ON INVESTMENT
Sample analysis for a company with 100 employees.
You can find out your potential ROI too. Reach out to us today and we’ll be more than glad to compute that for you.
Why are we investing in the area of culture and communication? There is no doubt that the effects cannot be easily substantiated into whole definite numbers. Change can be sometimes dreadful, can alter career planning and has its phases of ambiguity. Nevertheless, its influence is visible across the top and bottom line.
Why don’t you contact us today for an estimate of your
Return On Investment.
OUR CREDENTIALS
PROOF OF ACTION
Our Credentials
Lumen isn’t an “all talk - no substance” entity. Because our reputation precedes us, we back up our words with a great deal of action. We work for multinational corporations and small/medium scale businesses, traditional and new age companies. We effect change at the beginning, in the middle and at the end. Whether for clarity or planning, for development or implementation, we accompany organisations on their way to success. Therefore, we have selected a few cases we (have) work(ed) on as proof of our hard work and success.
Culture Shift – Change – FUTUROLOGY
We are currently working with the senior management and functional teams of a large insurance company and an NPO to work out future strategies. For cultural changes, we design workshops, learning trips and barcamps, break down the projects into practicable work packages and shape the desired transformation with the employees and partners.
MINDSET – internationale ProduCTION SITE
At an international pharmaceutical company, we are working with the management team on the values and expectations of their organisation. We develop standards via workshops, conceptualise communication strategies, position departments and lead the rollout by moderating large group events and creating a “train-the-trainer” concept.
MISSION STATEMENT -
THE OLDEST ORGANISATION IN THE WORLD
We have worked with high ranking officials of several churches in developing their mission statements. We research needs, moderate stakeholder interests,
develop key messages and create graphics.
ACCELERATOR - THE YOUNGEST ORGANISATION IN THE WORLD
In many startup development programs,
we work with initiators and investors for maximised impact. We conceptualise program designs, provide mentors,
give advice on management concepts and develop strategic options.
LEARNING JOURNEY - BANKING AND INSURANCE
With powerhouses from the Rhein-Main region, we are taking the first steps towards transformation. We are designing a learning journey for two role models in digital transformation - a larger company and a startup. We conceptualise the journey, select learning locations, arrange the discussions and secure the transfer results.
COMMUNICATION STRATEGY - INTERNATIONAL MEDIA
We are working with the American movie giant, 20th Century Fox on the marketing of a film in the German market. Lumen was entrusted with the communication strategy and the public relations work for "Exodus - Gods and Kings" - particularly targeting church and christian circles in Germany.
STARTUP CULTURE -
THE CITY OF WIESBADEN
The co-working space Heimathafen in Wiesbaden is bursting at the seams. More space is needed to contain the overflowing amounts of creatives who come here.
How pleasant is it that the Altes Gericht in Wiesbaden is just right there and empty!
We develop the communication concept, go into talks with stakeholders from politics and business, develop room layouts and secure financing.
ORTE UND ERFAHRUNGEN
Transformation zum Anfassen
Showrooms
Lumen lives in 3D. We see, live and experience transformation in the flesh. We nurture communities, develop customer value and scale solutions in our showrooms. These are real innovation labs where work is made flexible, direct and interactive. A journey begins with the little drop of an idea in the mind and the respective discovery of possibilities. As Johannes Kleske aptly describes:
“Anyone who really wants to master digitalization must be able to deal with the instability of environmental factors. Today, tomorrow and 2050. The real challenge is to become flexible and adaptable.”
In our partner locations and interactive programs, we bring the transformation closer to you. Some topics can only be explored on the surface by lectures or seminars. Corporate culture and mindset are part of it. For this we have developed a showroom program, which brings you close to those from which you can expect inspiration for your working world.
Contact us and get a mindblowing impression of the power of mindset and new ways of working.
THE PLACES
Heimathafen Wiesbaden
Heimathafen is a 450 sqm site where DAX and Startups meet, where practical use meets comfortability. Here, there are co-working spaces serving as headquarters to 15 startups, 50 creatives+freelancers, 100 annual events and numerous conferences and corporate events in an inspiring environment - and the connection to our creative network is just around the corner.
Hafven Hannover
More than 2,000 sqm, Hafven merges coworking and creator space. This means office workplaces, meeting and workshop rooms, a fabrication laboratory, wood and metal workshops and a café are all merged into one big accomodation for creators and entrepreneurs. There are currently over 800 members using this open space simply to create, including self-employeds, employees, startups and corporations.
THE PROGRAMMES
Intrapreneurship Programme
Do you need more entrepreneurs in enterprising? Would you like to stir up your organisation from the inside and give it new impulse? We have put together a 6-module program that teaches innovation methods and enables you to test your ideas like a startup. We bring you in touch with seasoned experts on agile business models and customer focus. We usher you in to Culture Change and the necessary strategies to effectively market your ideas. Contact us if you would like to know more.
Startup CULTURE IN YOUR ORGANISATION
You need more momentum and innovation in your organisation? We specialise in culture and help you realise a pilot for your department within 6 weeks. We use our years of experience in co-working spaces and consultancy in large corporations to set a new phase for your culture with you. Contact us if you would like to know more.
LEARNING JOURNEY - THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX
In one day, we take at least a team of up to 50 people on a learning journey on how to evolve into two companies that have mastered digitalization for themselves. We select the companies, organise and help with the transfer deliberations. We tailor the learning objectives to your organisation. Contact us if you would like to know more.
MEDIEN
Videos, Audios and E-Books
OUR MEDIA PORTFOLIO
Impassivity is not our thing at Lumen. We possess strong convictions and we speak and write about them. In this section, you will find all sorts of media on everything that has to do with agile, digital and social change. Just a click away and of course, at no cost. There are many gems to pick out here. Have fun doing just that!
NEW WORK & REALISING ONE’S POTENtialS
What mindset and changes in attitudes/standpoints should we cultivate if we want to achieve potential development rather than potential inhibition at work?
Three Co´s from Dominik
Dominik on Co-work, Collaboration and Cooperation. What these mean for communities, cities and for the future, as well as the mindset necessary to create a change.
Our Mindset booklet
e-book: THE THREE MASTERS OF MINDSET
Mindset, Grit and Peak - what psychology teaches us about success and our chances.
At Lumen, we believe in the power of right attitude and believe that you can benefit from it. This is why we are shedding light on the core ideas of three masters for you: in pictures - simple and easy to digest.
Download our Free E-Book here: The Three Masters of Mindset
VIDEO: Startup-Tricks fOr eStabliSHED OrganisationS
Faster, more agile and more courageous, our partner Marlin Watling reveals in this video what established companies can learn from start-ups: speed, purpose, failure, focus.
By the way, Heimathafen Wiesbaden, one of our closest partners, hosted this event.
Marlin talks about his tried and tested startup tricks which have proven to be very efficient in corporate environments at the Heimathafen Wiesbaden Donnerstalk.
Examples: Speed & Focus, Purpose & Values, Storytelling & Positioning, OKRs & Failures. Thanks to Dominik & the Heimathafen team for their friendship and partnership!
#newwork hashtag#startup hashtag#corporateculture hashtag#okrs
AUDIO: WHAT ROLE DOES ETHICS PLAY IN DIGITALIZATION?
At Lumen, the phrase "we transform" is preconceived on two ideals: change and values. But where do they come from? Lumen partner Dominik Hofmann invites an exciting guest panel to Heimathafen Wiesbaden to discuss this. Featuring EKHN president - Volker Jung, Birgit Heilig from SEND e.V., and Daniel Nowack from Yunus Social Business.
LET´S TALK
WE LOOK FORWARD TO RECEIVING YOUR MESSAGE!
Please contact us for a non-binding discussion and first thoughts on your case.