Skip to content

Organisational Structures

by Jim Knaggs on June 16, 2009

Once upon a time we were comfortable with linear organisational structures with clear and direct lines of authority. More and more, these systems do not serve us or our mission. One of our problems is that we are so accustomed to these definitions, it’s like crawling out of a cavern to consider other possibilities.

Let us be courageous and fresh in our thinking. The new frameworks are more fluid and shapeless and likely susceptible to change sooner than later. I believe we’re up to it if we will put ourselves into it with open minds and mission focus. Yes, Lord.

2 Chronicles 2:6 (MSG)
6 But who is capable of building such a structure? Why, the skies—the entire cosmos!—can’t begin to contain him. And me, who am I to think I can build a house adequate for God—burning incense to him is about all I’m good for!

9 Comments Leave one →
  1. Anonymous permalink

    Do it now, Lord! Amen

  2. Anonymous permalink

    Go for it – and, please God, help it happen in many, many other settings too!

    Robyn Clinch

  3. Anonymous permalink

    I did not know the Army had a new fluid structure. This may explain why I am drowing as everyone thinks they are my boss and has a right to ask of my time. Under this new structure it seems like the number of bosses have increased while the number of foot soldiers stays the same. I would blame my boss for this if I knew who they were.

  4. yes, Jim, but how to get there? New images, lots of circles, webs, interconnection – but tough when people on many levels aren't even used to talking with each other

    love to your bride!

  5. Anonymous permalink

    Horizontal structures, be they webs or circles often make for a more pleasant working environment.

    However, when it comes to productivity, the most effective organisational structure still remains a linear one.

    Of course there's always a danger with linear structures that the person in charge can abuse their power and become nepotistic.

    But that would never happen at THQ would it?

  6. Jim Knaggs permalink

    A1 and A2/R – Thanks.

    A3 – Assumptions? Clever.

    HS – not easy. requires courage. expect significant outcomes.

    A4 – This is probably true for you. Do you want life without risk?
    There will always be nepotism in the family of God.

    THQ will probably not be perfect in the eyes of some. Don't be distracted by that which does not contribute to your improvement.

  7. Jim Knaggs permalink

    A1 and A2/R – Thanks.

    A3 – Assumptions? Clever.

    HS – not easy. requires courage. expect significant outcomes.

    A4 – This is probably true for you. Do you want life without risk?
    There will always be nepotism in the family of God.

    THQ will probably not be perfect in the eyes of some. Don't be distracted by that which does not contribute to your improvement.

  8. Nicky permalink

    A4, I would suggest that you should have listened to the 7:30 report on the ABC. The Professor who was interviewed in the area of education world-wide would suggest that your very structured way of seeing things is leading to the demise of creativity and satisfacton. I would tend to agree with him. I work within this very structured movement, (which no doubt you like due to your personality type – probably a "J" in the Myers/Briggs) and as a person who enjoys brainstorming and team based ministry, it can be lacking. I think I agree with the TC on this one and would love to see change, change that encourages useful support structure and creative endeavour.

  9. Anonymous permalink

    "we're all seeing/seeking the same Savior" aren't we?

Leave a Reply

Note: HTML is allowed. Your email address will not be published.

Subscribe to this comment feed via RSS