Scientific Inquiry as Management Model

Business models must change to fit the current 
environment.  Otherwise, even the most powerful 
companies can wind up in trouble.  The management 
model is an important part of this.  Clearly, the 
conventional boss/subordinate/coworker 
relationships -- where the fear of job loss and 
desire for promotion are the primary motivators -- 
 no longer deliver the needed results.

Where to look for new ideas?  Well, Free/Open 
Source Software originated in the academic world, 
to become the key technology for many different 
types of organizations -- including businesses, 
ranging from the tiniest startup to multinational 
in size.

What about using the notion of scientific inquiry 
as a management model beyond the academic world?  
Of course, the goals are different, but the 
concept of an impartial search for truth should 
create a better work environment -- and help the 
organization meet its objectives.  Here are the 
best parts of the scientific process, which are 
broadly applicable.

    * New ideas are welcome, but must be
      rigorously tested.
    * Attribution is very important -- plagiarism 
      is strictly prohibited.  Everyone who 
      contributes is explicitly acknowledged, with
      the greatest contributor listed first.  The
      supervisor of a project is customarily 
      listed last. 
    * There is an emphasis on verification, and
      reproducible results.  Prior work is always
      cited.
    * Everyone is a colleague.  Sharing
      information is mandated, and mutual 
      mentoring strongly encouraged.

This approach should lead to a less politicized 
workplace.  If strong attribution and rigorous 
verification are emphasized, it is much harder to 
manipulate and cheat.  Employees who focus on 
doing their jobs and helping others quickly become 
visible.  

The emerging better practices further benefit the 
organization.  If all results are reproducible, 
then overall performance is much more predictable.

posted on 1176129829.9 by SiteAdmin