Can a transformation be the result of deliberate planning and action? Or do transformations take place by chance or automatically as a result of intrinsically motivated initiatives by individuals?
EAn interesting perspective
I recently listened to a podcast with the Chief Digital Officer (CDO) of a German company. In it, the CDO puts forward an exciting hypothesis: "We don't see (...) transformation as something where the board of directors pushes forward with force, (...) submarines and islands are much better and then at some point the rest of the company turns."
USubmarines and islands as a transformation strategy?
Submarines and islands are often a tried and tested approach when there is not yet sufficient conviction and knowledge in top management and in the organization or when the idea of change and transformation still needs to mature with the necessary persuasive power.
The submarine symbolizes the invisible, unnoticed underground and the necessary time advantage, which is bought "secretly". In this way, content can be substantially developed. But alliances can also be forged to give changes in the company the necessary initial momentum.
The inevitable surfacing of the submarine
But the submarine ultimately speaks for a company culturethat supposedly only allows exploration underground. Transparency and openness do not appear to be values that are practiced. For a successful transformation that effectively masters the fundamental change in the company, the submarines have to surface one day and become visible. By then at the latest, those who decide on investment funds will need to be convinced. And then, at the latest, it also needs board members and managing directors from time to time who, although they should not push forward with force, must now and again strengthen the backbone of the transformation.
Transformations can start underground, but will end there unsuccessfully if you do not succeed in working with Transparency and openness to inspire people for the vision and goals of change.
EA thought-provoking conclusion
Who actually wants to work in a company where people go underground for ideas, visions and exploration? And who wants to work in a company where those who pursue underground initiatives are successful and rewarded?