The Water Level is Lowering: Are Your Teams Ready?

In lean manufacturing the concept of lowering the water level to expose the rocks can force teams to identify and eliminate wastes. This water level concept can apply to organizational alignment as well. When times are good, the water level is high, and there’s plenty of margin to go around, it can be easy for individual departments to act in silos, taking whichever path they prefer. However, when the water level lowers, it becomes clear that there is only one path that gets you to your strategic mission. This is when leadership and strategic alignment become essential.

In a well-aligned organization, everyone is working towards the same goals. This means that even when times get tough, everyone is pulling in the same direction. However, many organizations are not well-aligned. This can lead to problems when the water level lowers.

For example, if one department is focused on cutting costs, while another department is focused on increasing sales, the organization will be pulled in two different directions. This can lead to confusion, frustration, and ultimately, failure.

So, what can you do to ensure that your organization is well-aligned? Here are a few tips:

• Start with a clear Mission. What do you want your organization to achieve? What are your core values? Have you put intentional effort & thought into this lately, not just a few years ago? Most leadership teams do this when its convenient, not on an organizational drumbeat. If you see opportunity here, taking the first step is key to getting the ball rolling.
• Communicate your Mission, and then do it again. Make sure everyone knows what they are working towards and why. Far more often is the strategic direction under shared as opposed to over shared.
• Create a culture of collaboration and teamwork. Encourage employees to share ideas and work together to achieve common goals. No department can win if the broader organization is not winning.
• Measure your progress and make adjustments. Don't be afraid to change course if your strategy is not working. “Rent your opinions, don’t own them”.

So, what if the water level is already starting to lower in your organization? Don't panic! There is still time to take action. Here are a few things you can do:

• Conduct a strategic review. Take a close look at your organization's goals, strategies, and processes. Are you still moving in a direction that will get you where you need to be?
• Evaluate & realign your resources. Make sure that your people, money, and time are being used in the most efficient way possible. Who’s moving against the flow? Are they potentially moving the right direction?
• Communicate with your employees. Be brutally honest about the current situation and what specifically is needed moving forward. In Marlene Sprouse's series of next-gen leadership courses, her day on having difficult conversations is fundamental.
• Be prepared to make changes. Things may not always go according to plan. Be prepared to adapt and change course as needed.

In conclusion, organizational alignment is crucial for success, especially when the water level starts to lower. By having a clear mission, communicating it effectively, fostering a culture of collaboration, and continuously measuring progress, organizations can stay on track and overcome challenges. In times of change, conducting a strategic review, realigning resources, communicating with employees, and being prepared to make changes are essential. By following these steps, organizations can increase their chances of success and navigate through any obstacles that come their way. So, take action now and ensure that your organization remains strong, agile, and ready for whatever lies ahead. Engage further by exploring additional resources and tools that can help you enhance organizational alignment and achieve your goals.