The problem with hierarchy is not the role definition that comes with it, the problem is that bosses use hierarchy to tell those below them what to do. We believe that clear role definitions (with people filling various roles that may change from time to time) allows the team to focus on getting the job done rather than worrying about the uncertainly of the limits of their authority or their responsibilities. This uncertainty will (certainly) reduce their ability to solve highly cognitively demanding tasks.
Instead, use hierarchy in a way that places greater obligation on those higher up to take care of their teams, and greater responsibility to ensure those below them have the tools they need, in the form of technical competence and organizational clarity, to be successful when making decisions.
Author: David Marquet
Source: Harvard Business Review
Subject: Organizational Behavior
Click to Add the First »