Alignment & Management

Alignment is an essential piece in the puzzle of an organization to be successful. There are vastly significant approaches of establishing alignment. Let us ponder two diametrically opposed philosophies of alignment. Rather than providing answers, I present you with two images and will ask some questions for your own reflection.

Scenario A

Managers create alignment by allocating assignments to teams

Let us ponder a few points:

• How likely will our Manager (M) get the Widget that is needed?
• How efficiently will the team (T) work on the Widget?
• How will S contribute to the organization – in the short term and long term?
• What is required to keep everyone aligned? Who needs to invest this effort?

Scenario B

Managers keep their hands off as long as the strategic direction is suitable

Let us ponder a few points:

• How likely will the Widget be exactly as needed?
• What happens to effectiveness when S joins?
• Which are the likely effects of having S join T? Consider side effects.
• What is required to keep everyone aligned? Who needs to invest this effort?

Comparison

Finally, let us compare the outcome of the two scenarios:

• Which approach will deliver the more valuable Widget?
• Which approach has lower total cost of ownership? Consider the costs of:
• Management
• Waste
• Delay
• Knowledge
• Recruiting
• Opportunity (for getting other things done)
• Which approach will result in a more stable company? Consider:
• Keeping alignment
• Profitability
• Risk of failure

Conclusion

Is active management intervention the best way to align an organization?
Draw your own conclusions.