Recent discussion has evolved regarding the way Alternative Missions functions based on the article The Three Ways of Getting Things Done, by Gerard Fairtlough. This document is located under the “Docs” tab in the “Leadership and Teaming” section. One staff member was reading through the various documents and commented on the ideas of Hierarchy, Heterarchy and Responsible Autonomy. Feel free to join in discussion….
Staff Post:
So, did y’all know that we have some killer documents on this AMU site? I never really read through them all until now & am really only doing so to be sure everything is “right” for the transfer from the old AMU site.(sorry, but I’ve gotta be honest). I didn’t realize the value of some of the articles we have.
I just finished reading the article on the “3 Ways of Getting Things Done.” I LOVE it. This article really helps explain who we are as an organization - that we operate in a heterarchal system. Although, it seems like each of our locations, while they operate in a heterarchy individually, as they each relate together & with the home office, it seems more like responsible autonomy. Tom, does this sound right?
To be honest, I’m still trying to wrap my mind around the whole concept. But I like the description of the advantages of heterarchy:
- makes rulers more accountable
- discourages tyranny (which is what I was referring to in earlier posts)
- requires personal responsibility
- ensures commitment to the organization’s vision and values
- delivers creative, cooperative solutions
- fosters continuing learning
- fosters skills like negotiation and facilitation
- permits constant change and adaption
- draws on diverse talents and skills
That really sounds like who we are. Tom, this week I’m just really thankful for the God-given vision you’ve pursued in this organization. My experiences in the last week combined with reading through some of our documents has deepened my appreciation for this organization. Thank you Jesus for allowing me to be a part.
Tom’s Reply:
Yes - Heterarchy is the closests to who we are. In some ways the location to board relationship is Responsible Autonomy and we try to have as little of the Hierarchy approach going on from board to locations or staff as possible. This is imporant for staff to understand and reading the article would be really important for everyone to do. I like to think of us as a “Missions Co-Operative” where we agree to serve together because God has directed us together in our different locations. That is a simplistic view but communicates our respect for each other and our commitment together at the same time.
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