“Kill the Stupid Rules” is an exercise that focuses attention on non-essentials that get in everybody’s way. Most stupid rules are enshrined policies that, over time, become “how we do things around here” — that is, part of the culture. Often they’re minor but familiar irritations: expense documentation requirements, IT departments’ blocking of access to useful websites, monthly operating reports that eat up significant amounts of time to prepare and review. When asked to identify stupid rules, most of a company’s employees offer up the same suggestions, indicating that widespread frustration has become routine. By agreeing to jettison rules widely perceived as idiotic, leaders can garner an almost unreasonable return in loyalty and respect.
Source: Best Business Books 2012: Organizational Culture
Original Publication: strategy+business
Subjects: Management, Organizational Behavior
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