Organisations need to adapt to the network era, a time characterised by the democratisation of information and decentralisation of power, to thrive. Hierarchical structures that thrive on control and routine are becoming obsolete. Instead, organisations should embrace networked structures, prioritising transparency, trust, and reciprocity. This change requires a shift from knowledge hoarding to knowledge sharing, with an emphasis on learning and adaptation.
A new model is proposed, the ‘wirearchy’. This concept is defined as a dynamic, two-way flow of power and authority, based on knowledge, trust, credibility, and a focus on results, enabled by interconnected people and technology. It is a more flexible, adaptive structure that can respond rapidly to changing conditions.
To implement this model, organisations should focus on nurturing their networks and fostering a culture of cooperation and knowledge sharing. They should encourage experimentation and learning, and should not punish failure but see it as a learning opportunity. They should also make use of technology to connect people and facilitate collaboration.
In the network era, individuals are as important as the organisation. They should be encouraged to develop their own professional networks and to learn continuously. In this way, they become nodes in the network, contributing to the overall adaptability and resilience of the organisation.
Go to source article: http://www.jarche.com/2012/09/how-organizations-can-thrive-in-the-network-era/