Distributed Authority Model: Prototyping Adaptive Governance

What participants gain

• Design a distributed authority model.
• Empower teams and individuals to make decisions.
• Foster autonomy and accountability.
• Promote adaptability within the organization.
• Reduce bottlenecks and improve decision-making speed.

Materials needed

• A3 paper or whiteboard
• Colored markers
• Post-it notes
• Timer
• Distributed Authority Model template

How to run Distributed Authority Model: Prototyping Adaptive Governance, step by step

1. 1. Introduce the Distributed Authority Model and its purpose (5 min).
2. 2. Explain the key principles of distributed authority (10 min).
3. 3. Identify key decision-making processes within the organization (10 min).
4. 4. Design a distributed authority model for those processes (20 min).
5. 5. Discuss the potential benefits and challenges of the model (5 min).
6. level
7. rationale
8. rationale

Facilitator tips

• Emphasize the importance of clear roles and responsibilities.
• Encourage participants to experiment with different governance structures.
• Provide support and guidance to teams as they implement the distributed authority model.
• Monitor the effectiveness of the model and make adjustments as needed.
• Celebrate successes and learn from failures.

Common challenges

• Participants are hesitant to delegate authority. - Emphasize the benefits of distributed authority and provide support and guidance.
• Teams struggle to coordinate their decisions. - Implement clear communication protocols and decision-making processes.
• The model becomes too complex and difficult to manage. - Simplify the model by focusing on the most critical roles and responsibilities.
• Participants resist the change to a distributed authority model. - Address their concerns and provide training and support.

Running it virtually

Use a virtual whiteboard tool like Miro or Mural to collaboratively design the distributed authority model. Utilize breakout rooms for smaller group discussions and prototyping exercises.

Expected results

Participants will design a prototype of a distributed authority model that empowers teams and individuals to make decisions within their areas of expertise. They will gain a shared understanding of the model and its potential benefits.

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