Random Re-Orgs

If you’ve been in a decent sized organization for a number of years, you’ve seen it – the (roughly) annual random re-org. It happens with clockwork regularity at some companies; in the name of improved operating efficiency and productivity, people and boxes are moved around the organization chart like checkerboard pieces. And yet somehow it seems the organization inevitably ends up more cumbersome than before.

Senior Management often turns to reorgs because it’s their favorite tool for (seemingly) changing the organization’s direction. It’s a blunt instrument, but it’s a lot easier than sitting down and actually figuring out a real corporate strategy.

Reorgs are also sometimes seen as a solution for low morale. When you see signs of low morale, such as people coming into work later, leaving earlier, and taking longer lunches, you know something needs to change. Sometimes there will be sweeping e-mails from senior management that seem detached from all reality, describing new directions and bold initiatives. You inevitably yawn and move on to the next e-mail, but these e-mails are often followed by a random reorg.

You may be affected in one of two ways by a random re-org: negatively, or not at all. Negative results may include being moved into a position with less interesting work or less responsibility, or placed under a boss from hell, or even being RIF’ed. In the name of efficiency, strategic maneuvering, or realignment to core values (or some other such management phrase) you may end up in a new role that makes little sense.

In 99% of cases however, the shuffling will occur well above your level and there will be little to no direct impact on your day to day activities. Life just goes on as before.