Evolution of a Process
Two managers come together with an idea
to make work more efficient, thus providing
cost savings.
The managers undertake
intense brainstorming to
define just the right process.
Now that they have determined a
process, they take it up the chain
for approval.
Will the process be approved?
Upper level managers go
through the process with a
close eye to detail.
Yes! They have
been so lucky.
No! The process
starts again.
The two managers go off to
tell the rest of the staff of
the new process.
Meetings are held to
discuss the virtues of
the new process.
Staff members leave the
meetings believing that
they know exactly what to
do.
The next day staff members try
to implement the process, but
quickly become confused.
Some hide.
Others run.
Some are blinded
by the promise of
advancement and
forge ahead.
A rare few
contemplate suicide.
Over time, staff members come
to accept the policy. Some even
embrace it as a true innovation.
All seems perfect in the world
again.
Management and staff
become involved in a tug‐
of‐war over implementing
the process. Staff resist,
while management
threatens retribution.
Disappointed that staff have
accepted the process, and
left them with nothing to do
but sit in their office and
stare at their computer
screen, management decides
to jettiso