more organizational dynamics rant

Why is there a ponderous intertia with most organizations? Because the "consumers" of the services provided by most organizations aren't engaged in the process. The organization does what the members don't want to do individually. Or so the members think.

In reality the narcissim kicks in and the leadership feathers their nest while making soothing cooing sounds to the chicks. To ascend into the leadership circle it's essential to be true blue to the organizational culture and pass acid tests of faithfulness to the sanctity of the organization, and the existing leadership. Certainly no one who has new ideas or even entertains the possibility that things might be done a little differently will ever move up into that exalted circle.

So what happens if change occurs outside the bastions of the organizational boundaries? There is a big world outside and there are countless connections between any organization and diverse extrinsic factors. Ideally the leadership recognizes such change and responds--or even anticipates change before it happens or even better creates the change leading to improved service to the members and others affected secondarily (like the public--LOL).

Creeping, seductive narcissim gracefully draws a heavy curtain usually obscuring shifting fortunes in the real world. It's much more satisfying for leadership to focus on matters totally familiar and under complete control--ie dealing with the other leaders who think like you and would never rock the boat.

Is there a solution to this pervasive patter that is threatening our institutions, commerce, environment and society? Not so far, but there is more hope now than in the past. That's the next blog topic.