3 Management Lessons from Bali's Subak System

In this edition of "Let's Talk!" we talk about the rice farming practices of Bali & what has made it super successful as well as the possibilities of multiple management lessons!

The moment I think of Bali, their lush green rice fields come to mind (no, not their beaches!). Known to have one of the most fertile landforms, Bali is not just a leading rice producer in Indonesia - we can take several cues from them to farm sustainably and live harmoniously with nature!

While conversing with the locals and my research that followed, I realised there is much to learn from Balinese farmers and their processes. "Subak" is a farmer's collective, a democratic organization that enables & empowers farmers associated with each regional Subak.

Here are 3 main learnings that have really stuck with me- that can very well be extended to today's organizations.

1. Balance

Did you know that the Subak system has existed for nearly a thousand years?! It is an efficient form of water irrigation process that ensures even small-time farmers benefit from it. It hinges on the philosophy of harmony between Humans, the Spiritual & the Natural world.

It is woven into Bali's cultural fabric and has served them well all along. Because of their united approach to farming, they have managed to steer clear of using chemical fertilisers. Thus, adding to the sustainability aspect of their farming practice!

2. Flexibility

Several meetings are held between the Subak members & leaders to ensure they can keep up with the ambiguity of changing forecasts or soil health or any other factors that affect the harvests. During these meetings, unanimous decisions are made by everyone who's involved.

They are given the autonomy of decision-making while also being bound by some basic legal rules. The rights of various members are guided by these rules and are agnostic of their castes. This eliminates discrimination and ensures every Subak member is set up for success.

3. Teamwork

Their united goal of keeping pests at bay helps them align all of their efforts and remain in synchrony. The Subak organization consists of farmers, people who fund farming as well as land owners, and other such stakeholders across the value chain.

Their roles are defined and not specific to the farm/land they own - this type of horizontal structure in the organization allows them to avoid working only for personal gains. As they all need to work together to come out successful. If this isn't one of the best case studies on teamwork, I don't know what else can be!

Drawing inspiration from nature & practices that are eco-friendly (such as the Subak System) is a great way to remind ourselves of the important things such as unity in diversity, servant leadership & designing for function as much as beauty! And most remarkably - the hierarchical structure of the farms doesn't extend to the farmers, and this is perhaps the most important management lesson I take away! People > Process, any day!