As I was responsible for introducing Jaques' Requisite Organizaton into
the discussion of hierarchies on this list, I am pleased with the critical
appraisal of this work given by Robert Fabian, who has worked with Elliott
Jaques. While 'Requisite Organisation' appears logical and consistent it
does seem more didactic than empirical.
As Robert suggests, most organisations are simultaneously accountable
hierarchies and associations. There is considerable (actual or potential)
power in formal and informal work teams drawn from different parts and
levels of an organisation. Often through such interactions, individuals
show that their contribution can far exceed that of their allocated role
in a hierarchy.
We should neither accept uncritically nor ignore Jaques' insights (whether
or not they are demonstrably supported by published research) but consider
how best to move from accountable hierarchies towards more flexible and
productive learning organisations.
Perhaps Robert (and others) have some practical ideas on this.
--John Farago <jfarago@cix.compulink.co.uk>
Learning-org -- An Internet Dialog on Learning Organizations For info: <rkarash@karash.com> -or- <http://world.std.com/~lo/>