EXERCISE 11.2 Treating Initiative Decay Earlier in this chapter, we identified “

ID: 425526 • Letter: E

Question

EXERCISE 11.2 Treating Initiative Decay

Earlier in this chapter, we identified “the top ten” causes of initiative decay. Which of these factors apply to the recent changes in Laguna Village organization?

What additional factors, not mentioned here, could cause initiative decay in Laguna Village organization?

Considering each cause in turn, what treatment would you prescribe in order to avoid or to reduce the decay?

Cause Prescribed Treatment

1. Initiators move on

2. Accountability becomes diffuse

3. Knowledge lost through staff turnover

4. Old habits imported with new recruits

5. Change triggers no longer visible

6. New managers with their own agendas

7. Powerbrokers blocking progress

8. Pump-priming funds have run out

9. Other priorities diverting attention

10. Initiative fatigue, lack of enthusiasm

11. Other

Cause Prescribed Treatment

1. Initiators move on

2. Accountability becomes diffuse

3. Knowledge lost through staff turnover

4. Old habits imported with new recruits

5. Change triggers no longer visible

6. New managers with their own agendas

7. Powerbrokers blocking progress

8. Pump-priming funds have run out

9. Other priorities diverting attention

10. Initiative fatigue, lack of enthusiasm

11. Other

Explanation / Answer

Cause

Problem in Laguna village

Prescribed Treatment

1. Initiators move on

Directors was new to the community

The directors should be trained and associated with the norms and culture of the village, formal training and induction should be conducted for them

2. Accountability becomes diffuse

There are 38 elected board members who set policy for the community

The role and job of each director should be clearly defined to avoid duplication, inefficiencies in deliverables and some critical tasks being overlooked.

3. Knowledge lost through staff turnover

Many new directors are appointed who are new to the community and do not understand communities ways.

Restructuring of the board of directors with clear defined roles and also acquainting directors with the community life and culture.

4. Old habits imported with new recruits

Growing mistrust and fear in the management leading to politicking, insulting and infighting

The c38 directors and key community leaders should work together to build harmony and trust.

5. Change triggers no longer visible

Consultant has been brought in to look at many issues haunting the Laguna village

The changes recommended by the consultant should be quickly implemented after highlighting the main reasons for the community members. Politicking, slander, and mistrust should be avoided at all costs.

6. New managers with their own agendas

General manager was fired because he withheld information of an employee incentive plan

Regular meetings should be conducted where large budget outflows or overspending should be discussed and approved before launching n incentive scheme.

7. Powerbrokers blocking progress

The problems are created by directors who are new to the community

They should be regular gatherings and meeting to involve new members and acquaint them with the village culture. The formal welcome program can also be organized periodically.

8. Pump-priming funds have run out

Overspending because of inefficiencies

Appoint a controller who can make a budget and ensure efficient management of funds and find ways to avoid potential leakages.

9. Other priorities diverting attention

10. Initiative fatigue, lack of enthusiasm

Fear and distrust is growing in the community. The feeling that homeowners organization that manages the village is inept and inefficient.

Communication and interaction amongst the organizers and members of the village should be held regularly. Confidence and trust building approach should be followed and taking a transparent approach to any new initiative can help build bridges and reestablish trust.

11. Other

Lot of politicking and posturing instead of problem-solving and solution-oriented approach

Establishing trust amongst the community by holding many fun gatherings and events, picnics etc to encourage bonhomie and pleasantness.