The world is changing quickly these days. Probably faster than most of us can even appreciate in real time. Our recent global economic meltdown is proof enough of that.
Individually, we can react to a shift in circumstances in the way in which we prioritize our tasks, the rigidity in which we might enforce policies and procedures and so on. But for an organization to properly address a significant shift in the marketplace, it must take a more drastic step of re-organizing. This process, sadly, often includes staff reductions, but is necessary to allow the company to place the right people and resources in front of the most important challenges.
These changes are not without costs, though. Change causes discomfort and can reduce morale as people often feel uprooted and unsure of the conditions. Productivity takes a short term hit as folks come up to speed with their new roles, challenges and staffs.
Regardless of the negatives, companies will need to continue to be agile in its approach to structure. And we as leaders, manager and staff will need to get better at foreseeing and shepherding change through our organization. We'll need to all work together to fill in the gray areas with detail and help people feel comfortable and empowered with change rather than merely being a victim to it.
I know, I know. Easier said, than done, right? Well, what isn't? Just because it's hard doesn't mean we still don't need to get better at it.
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