Cut the Bullshit Tasks, Apply Occam's Razor, and Innovate Better and Faster! It's leaner too...
Evert Smit
Director Scouting (for Sustainability, Technology & Innovation) - Lohmann GmbH & Co. KG, and President - Afera
This applies to basically all parts of companies. But let's focus. Innovation and R&D teams are often bogged down by excessive bureaucracy and "bullshit tasks" that stifle creativity. I wrote about that recently (https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/thought-mid-week-why-smart-goals-can-limit-your-teams-evert-smit-jinwe/).
In the meantime, Hans Stegeman wrote some excellent bits on basically the same stuff that is bogging down progress, but in other environments: https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/22-different-ways-look-bullshit-jobs-hans-stegeman-c0awe/). Recommended reading!
I would like to expand on this a bit now by introducing and slightly adopting Occam's Razor here...
For those unfamiliar, Occam's Razor is a principle suggesting that the simplest explanation or solution is usually the best one. It advocates for eliminating unnecessary components in problem-solving, asserting that among competing hypotheses, the one with the fewest assumptions should be selected.
We all know (but fear to admit?) that Innovation- and R&D-teams are often bogged down by excessive bureaucracy and "bullshit tasks", that stifle creativity. Applying Occam's Razor can radically improve their efficiency. Eliminate unnecessary tasks like detailed hour registration, rigid project planning, and cumbersome steering committees that contribute nothing to real innovation. Simplify decision-making by cutting down on pointless approvals and empowering team members. Replace formal documentation with dynamic communication methods like regular informal check-ins. I know, many a project manager will shiver by my statements here. But please entertain the thought.
By adopting Occam's Razor, teams can operate more effectively and drive innovation faster, ensuring that their efforts contribute to both technological advancement and environmental stewardship. This streamlined approach not only enhances efficiency but also fosters a more dynamic and motivated work environment, ultimately driving greater innovation in critical areas such as sustainability and green technology. But: at the loss of control, I know, I know... it can only work if there is real trust. And then we are there again.
Hi Evert Smit, I'd like to add three points to continue the conversation: 1) Knowledge is key to simplicity. Complications often arise from a lack of understanding or basics. It's important to note that knowledge doesn't necessarily mean having the answer to every problem. 2) Bureaucracy serves as a safety valve for Operations. In Operations, a large number of people try and perform the same task consistently. Bureaucracy is invaluable for repeating proven methods. However, in innovation, you have a smaller group focused on discovering the right approach. Operations wants Innovation to follow their rules. 3) There is a human bias to oppose Occam's razor. Some people tend to overcomplicate things to appear more intelligent.