Broken Windows Theory in Workplace Management

Broken window theory is the concept that each problem that goes unattended in a given environment affects people's attitude toward that environment and leads to more problems.

The Broken Window Theory suggests that when bad behavior is not addressed immediately, it shows people that there are no consequences to breaking the rules, practices or standards. Without a correction; bad behavior becomes acceptable, quality will decrease and the organization will deteriorate.

Consider a building with a few broken windows. If the windows are not repaired, the tendency is for vandals to break a few more windows. Eventually, they may even break into the building, and if it's unoccupied, perhaps become squatters or light fires inside.

In a business context, broken window theory is applied not only to elements of the physical workplace environment but any kind of outstanding?issue that has not been promptly dealt with. Problems like absenteeism, information silos, poor?human resource management, overwork,?burnout,?oppressive or?disconnected?corporate cultures?and a lack of?employee engagement?can?each be considered analagous to?a?broken window.

The Broken Windows Theory is a welcome addition to the toolkit all organizations should have to deal with small problems before they become big headaches and cause irreparable damage to the health and welfare of the organization.

The Broken Windows Theory can be more successful if the organization establishes clear cut policies that misconduct will not be tolerated. Moreover, whistleblowing processes should be established so that offenses can be dealt with immediately without fear of retaliation.

The Broken Window Theory can be more successful if the organization establishes clear cut policies that misconduct will not be tolerated. It becomes part of an ethical culture.

The Broken Window Theory provides a great example of why the ethical culture of the organization is something that should remain one of the top priorities of a company’s operation. It has been studied that “...in the workplace, the organization’s values often have a greater influence on decisions than a person’s own values.?

Applying the Broken Windows theory in workplace management and operations management can benefit businesses, especially in minimizing costs associated with undesirable employee behaviors.

Ultimately, a company will reap what they sow. If they don’t put in the effort to mediate and discourage ethical misconduct now, they will likely need to put in much more work to clean up the mess that is left in the future.