Integrated~Autonomy
Integrated~Autonomy helps groups navigate seemingly opposing forces, like standardization vs. customization, to find innovative 'both-and' solutions. By exploring the tensions between integration and autonomy, teams can develop more robust and adaptable strategies.
Use this method when a team is struggling with conflicting priorities or experiencing 'either-or' thinking that limits their options. It's particularly useful for strategic planning and decision-making in complex environments.
Solves: Bipolar swings in strategy, inability to reconcile competing needs, lack of innovative solutions
- 1
Introduce the concept of Integrated~Autonomy and pose the question: "How can we be more integrated and more autonomous at the same time?" Share examples. (5 min)
- 2
Use 1-2-4-All to generate a list of activities where there's tension between standardization and customization. (10 min)
- 3
In groups of four, select one activity and discuss the rationale for both standardizing and customizing it. (10 min)
- 4
Using 1-2-4, develop action steps to achieve standardization for the chosen activity. (10 min)
- 5
Using 1-2-4, develop action steps to achieve customization for the chosen activity. (10 min)
- 6
Identify which actions boost both standardization and customization. (5 min)
- 7
Brainstorm modifications or creative ideas to move actions towards benefiting both standardization and customization. (15 min)
- 8
Using 1-2-4-All, prioritize the most promising actions that promote both integration and autonomy. (10 min)
- 9
Refine action steps and develop effective Liberating Structures strings to implement them.
- Ensure the starting question is balanced and sparks curiosity.
- Encourage participants to consider both sides of the issue equally.
- If the group gets stuck, have each side argue the opposite point of view.
- Substitute collaboration and competition for integration and autonomy.
- Use Min Specs to go deeper into must-dos and must-not-dos after making progress.