Every individual (internal personal expectations) and every company (system/organizational/situational) understands boundaries, even if not explicitly communicated. In sports, there is an explicit “out of bounds” (as well as instant replay) that communicates to all players where the activity is. At organizations, it is not as clear – yet required.
At an organization, the organization design determines what will exist or not exist. It is a question of span vs. contain. With this design comes the culture, which attempts to get the right people to do the right thing at the right place at the right time. There are rules, which are imposed on employees….as well as expectations, which employees are expected to attain.
Boundaries provide the organization a focus – the rudder directing the ship, the baseline to have a foundation. The question becomes whether or not the person with direct ownership, or responsibility, will enforce the boundaries.
How does your organization communicate and enforce boundaries?
