Kjellquist Blog

Ok, I have to break down and make another post about these HBR Breakthrough Ideas (you did read your copy, didn’t you!). I have been a fan of David Weinberger since he co-authored the Cluetrain Manifesto with Doc Searls (journalist, Linux Journal columnist) and Chris Locke (author, commentator on the Internet). David is also the author of one my favorite witticisms (from Cluetrain Manifesto) “Laughter is the sound knowledge makes when it is being born”So, what does this have to do with the HBR article. Well, the last breakthrough idea is from David and is the concept of accountabalism. While I’m not sure I would call accountabalism a breakthrough, it certainly is widespread! It infects nearly every large corporation today!
To briefly quote the article (the last page is a MUST read for more details and you will go “Yup that’s us” with every paragraph)

“Accountabalism tries to squeeze centuries of thought about how to entice people toward good behavior and dissuade them from bad into simple rules by which individuals can be measured and disciplined. It would react to a car crash by putting stop signs at every corner. Bureaucratizing morality or mechanizing a complex organization gives us the sense that we can exert close control.”

“Accountabalism bureaucratizes and atomizes responsibility. While claiming to increase individual responsibility, it drives out human judgment. When a sign-off is required for every step in the work flow, those closest to a process lack the leeway to optimize or rectify it.” (italics are his)

Enough – did I peak your interest? I’ll be on the lookout for more from David and accountabalism. A quick Google check has just shown references to this article but I can’t believe there won’t be more coming.