Strategic IQ: Creating Smarter Corporations

2.4

INFORMAL ARCHITECTURE – LEVERAGING SOCIAL MECHANICS

Introduction

In Chapter 2.3 we discussed the complexity of formal architecture and how it stifles change. But much of what gets done in firms is done informally.¹ A firm's informal architecture – the unwritten rules, the power brokers, the rumour mill – can be an executive's friend or worst enemy. In this chapter we investigate the role of informal architecture, how it might contribute to inertia and how it can facilitate intelligent change.

Some people see the informal architecture as a handicap, a “political evil”. From this perspective, individuals pursue their own agendas and manipulate the system at the expense of the firm. Sadly, if employees are not motivated to make the firm successful, ...