Hierarchies within organisations need to adapt or risk becoming obsolete. Traditional top-down structures are increasingly unable to meet the demands of the modern business world, which prioritises agility, innovation, and customer satisfaction. The command-and-control model, which has dominated for centuries, is now under threat from a new breed of firms that operate as networks, rather than hierarchies. These networked organisations are more adept at fostering creativity, responding to market changes, and delivering superior customer experiences.
Yet, the transition from hierarchy to network is not straightforward. It requires a radical shift in mindset, away from power and control, towards trust and empowerment. This shift is often met with resistance, as it threatens established power structures and challenges long-held beliefs.
Despite these challenges, the survival of many businesses may depend on their ability to make this transition. The future of work is increasingly collaborative, decentralised, and customer-focused. Organisations that cling to outdated hierarchical models risk being left behind. As such, hierarchies must sign their own death warrant to survive, embracing the networked model that is better suited to the demands of the 21st-century economy.
Go to source article: http://www.forbes.com/sites/stevedenning/2013/12/02/why-hierarchies-must-sign-their-own-death-warrant-to-survive/