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Size matters


Could it be that "best intentions" would not be enough to chip through the hardened exterior of this organizations habits, thought Frustrated Frank.  As the digital transformation honeymoon period slipped into the rear-view mirror, the burden of change seemed to settle into place. 



Frank, it is no longer about the tools, instead it is each person's rationalization of why these tools will make them stronger; habits are challenging, continued Andy.  On one hand, if it works why fix it, and the other hand growth requires continuous innovation.  The organizational structure has an impact, flat organizations require compelling reasons to change.  For instance, significant pain points within the business resulting in lost revenue, market or corporate dictated edicts.  Without these, change lacks a sense of urgency and is at the discretion of the local management, the larger the operation, the greater the number of management layers, the higher probability of lackluster adoption.



Often, larger branches; flush with sales and work are focused acutely on execution and elect to defer change.  Whereas the smaller branches are always seeking an edge, they do not have the momentum of the larger branch.  Thus, adoption and use of new tools are welcomed as clear differentiators, as opposed to perceived distractors.  The approach may also be different; those with high work volume may not want to see and assess options, instead simply receive training; small branches may want a stronger “consultative” approach, plant the seed and help it grow.  These behaviors may also be observed from department to department within a branch.  In 2018, the people component is the largest contributor or detractor influencing successful adoption.  Thanks, said Frank, your perspectives have provided me with fresh ideas.



Innovation flourishes in communities were individuals are encouraged to challenge the norm and direction.  At what point is it appropriate to say, we have chosen a path and will stick with it, where is the balance between empowerment and leadership?  Managing polarization and moving beyond the rhetorical simplicity of prioritizing one value over all others or a false-choice narrative that freezes action-oriented debate into prolonged indecision.  You are either on the gas or the brakes, winning has no room for those simply coasting.  How are you driving sustainable adoption?



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Next post:  assess me?

Thoughts?  feel free to leave replies or direct message

See all of the "last mile worker" posts here:  http://lastmileworkersolutions.com

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