The High Impact Middle Manager

Chapter 7

Organizational Alignment: Ensuring That the Department Delivers Results

A well-aligned department hums with efficiency. Processes for getting the work done are clearly understood and effective. Staff members' roles support the goals of both their work team and the company. Individuals are clear about what they should contribute. They are appropriately empowered and expect to produce results. Communication to and from departments facilitates each team's ability to remain on course and prioritize. The organizational structure and individual roles enable team members to identify and solve problems quickly. Work is more satisfying because it makes sense.

In contrast, poorly aligned organizational structures and processes cause numerous ...