Friday, December 30, 2011

Conflicting Goals


It wouldn't make sense to have an all-you-can-eat buffet at a fat camp, would it?

Well, if that question seems odd consider how often departments operate with conflicting missions. One department emphasizes results while another's focus is on process. One pushes saving money while another scoffs at that low-bid mentality and advocates higher quality. One is people first and yet another is mission first. Many proclaim the customer is king while their peers think the customer is really a bit of a nuisance.

The more those conflicts can be put out on the table and reconciled, the better. I don't mean some "split the difference" solution that is convenient but resolves nothing. A courageous choice of which trumps which under which circumstances needs to be made.

Think that's too divisive? If you don't make the choices openly, they will be made covertly and in a manner that does not take into account the organization's larger purpose.

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