Agreeably Stagnant Gov 2.0 #gov20
The Gov 2.0 conversation, progressive as it is, is quite agreeably stagnant: everyone agrees something should be done, most folks agree with each other on what should be done, we agree with each other on who should be doing it, and, we agree, it should be done ASAP.
So, I’m glad everyone agrees. Now what?
The challenge seems to lie with getting the wheels of change turning. As a gear in the GE behemoth, I occasionally found my team in a similar quagmire. To accomplish the desired organizational shift, I used a change acceleration process called a Work-out session. This only works if you have the relationships at all levels to secure true commitments to the daylong session, and when the leadership culture requires supporting these focused efforts. Authoritative decision-makers must commit to making the decisions when called, analyzers must provide data when tapped, creative-thinking resources must respond when engaged, and so on through every slice of the organization impacted by the desired change. If you cannot secure the decision-makers, cancel the Work-out and avoid wasting valuable time and effort. Period.
The target driving this decision-making frenzy is the end-of-day presentation to the CEO or senior staff member covering what has been changed and how it will be sustained. Note the past tense “has been changed.” No continuing Work-out the next day, no waiting for get-back-with-you responses, no further study required. Those who can approve change are the ones engaged, no one lesser.
And change happens, usually in just a single day of grueling, inspiring heated discussion by passionate champions with a clear goal.
Lots of reasons why a Work-out can’t happen in government, let’s hear creative ideas on how it could.
Wouldn't you agree?
