Leading a Franken-unit
Frankenstein, a novel by English author Mary Shelley, tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist who creates a creature in an unorthodox experiment. The creature was a composite of whole body parts grafted together from cadavers and reanimated by the use of electricity (ref. Wikipedia). The story of the creature is a series of mishaps and ultimate death - an experiment gone wrong. A Franken-unit is a group formed from different individuals, groups and even resources. Much like the novel, it can be an unorthodox experiment destined for failure.
The early days of the war in Iraq saw some 'Franken-units,' organizations pieced together to form the bigger team required for the mission. It was the exception, not the norm and it was risky and dangerous work. It only succeeded through effective leadership. Units or teams are most effective when individuals know each other, have history together, and there are clear lines of authority and resources. While the exception, Franken-units can be necessary in business. When formed they can consist of external consultants, monies dedicated from different pots, and people or even small groups patched together for a specific purpose. Like the creature, their story will be one of mishaps and ultimate demise if not formed and led properly. Here are my thoughts.
One leader, the 'scientist' ought to be the single individual responsible for the forming and leading of such a group or unit. This person ought to have the requisite authorities and resources for the mission. Where this is not possible, a small committee can guide the efforts of the group but it should speak with one voice and be synchronized in its direction of people and resources. There ought to be a 'chain of command.' I am a fan if hierarchy and one (even it temporary) ought to be established with sub-leaders given authority and resources. If possible, assemble the group in a social setting and let it attempt to bond and build trust before it embarks on its mission. The mission ought to be clear and it ought to be resourced appropriately. Give the Franken-unit a 'battle rhythm,' a series of meetings and reports as rituals followed in the spirit of synchronization, collaboration and focus. Over-lead it. This conglomerate will need constant attention, direction and nurturing if it is to succeed. Lastly, give it a termination date. Franken-units ought to be temporary, otherwise a business ought to re-think its organization. Termination dates can be tied to mission accomplishment. When terminating, capture the lessons learned from this 'experiment' to use the next time it is required.
Unorthodox is a great way of describing how organizations operate in today's ever-changing pandemic environment. Franken-units can and will be required. If you must conduct this experiment, do so under the auspices of good leadership. I can help you!
Make it Personal!
Rob
Rob Campbell