Specified or implied, it is still a task
"Rule #1. Don't ask me what the minimum standards are. I do not know them." U.S. Army Sergeant
What exactly are we being asked to do? What are all the tasks and sub-tasks involved? Who doesn't want total clarity? Unfortunately that is not possible. It is unrealistic to believe that a leader can determine and direct every action involved with a project, mission, or problem to be solved, especially, and most importantly, how it will affect people. Therefore, it is incumbent on individuals and teams to determine those tasks, not specifically directed, which will lead to accomplishment of the mission, and how they affect people.
In the Army we used the Military Decision Making Process or MDMP to solve complex problems. It was an arduous process, thinking through in detail (often in the wee hours of the morning) how to solve a problem. Part of this process was to determine both specified and implied tasks. For example, a specified task might be to move an element of people and equipment from point A to point B as a designated time. The implied tasks or tasks not stated or directed would be to develop effective load plans incase a vehicle was lost in transit and to establish a refueling point to ensure the element could make it and that it would be full on fuel upon arrival awaiting its next mission.
In an internet technology (IT) company, a leader may direct a project to create an IT solution for a client. The leader may only offer a scope of work including deadlines and his or her intent (Purpose, Key Tasks, End State). Key tasks not being all-inclusive, the team must determine what additional tasks must be uncovered and added to ensure success. Additional tasks may include the ordering of supplies and configuring of systems in-house before arrival on site.
A simple, yet most important example is when a senior leader gives a directive to a subordinate leader. For example, the subordinate leader could be asked to implement a new tracking system for employee hours. The senior leader may only explain the new system, offer some intent and task the subordinate leader to implement it. Specified tasks could be to distribute the instructions to all employees, conduct training, and enforce compliance. Implied tasks could be announcement of the new system and why it must be implemented, gather feedback from users, and report compliance to senior leadership. Another implied task would be to monitor employee morale. While not stated, a new system tracking the activities of individuals in the workplace, might backfire. It is the task of the subordinate leader therefore, to keep a pulse on morale and champion the new system.
Substandard leaders do only what they are formally and specifically directed. Exceptional leaders determine the tasks which go unstated but which are essential to accomplishment of the mission and care of people.
Make it Personal!
Rob
Rob Campbell