HBR IdeaCast
To Fix Broken Work Systems, You Need to Reset
Jan 21, 2025
Dan Heath, a senior fellow at Duke University's Fuqua School of Business and author of "Reset: How to Change What’s Not Working," dives into the complexities of transforming dysfunctional work systems. He discusses the challenges teams face when initiating change and shares strategies for overcoming resistance. Heath emphasizes the importance of making problems visible and taking small steps toward progress. With real-life examples, he illustrates how leaders can reallocate resources effectively and improve customer relationships while fostering organizational growth.
30:37
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Quick takeaways
- Identifying and acknowledging core inefficiencies within a system is essential for breaking unproductive routines and unlocking potential.
- Motivating teams by aligning organizational goals with employee desires fosters collaboration and enhances the chances of successful change initiatives.
Deep dives
Recognizing Organizational Inertia
Organizations often become mired in inertia when employees repeatedly use outdated processes, leading to decision paralysis and resistance to change. This stagnation is sometimes enforced by well-intentioned individuals who may have valid past experiences shaping their cautious attitudes. Dan Heath emphasizes that simply running experiments isn’t enough to enact meaningful change; a complete system reset is often needed. Acknowledging these patterns is the first step to breaking free from unproductive routines and unlocking new potential.
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