SQUARE WHEELS
 
Scott Simmerman really likes Deming's framework: "All models are wrong; some models are useful." More than anything else, he is interested in usefulness and practicality. His approach is to share a very simple and general set of tools to help in understanding organizational behavior.  
 
Scott generally starts by presenting Square Wheels One as, "a model of how most organizations really work" and soliciting the groups' reactions about what they see and think.
 
In this cartoon, the leader pulls the wagon forward with a rope, an efficient way to pull. It also offers good clarity of vision about the journey forward. But the rope also insulates and isolates the puller from the wagon. Note that changing directions is also difficult.
 
The wagon itself is also okay, capable of handling the task at hand. And the Square Wheels do work, although there are some obvious improvements possible.
 
The people at the back, who are effectively pushing, have a limited view of where they are going. But the nature of the job, including the wagon, and the rope, and the need to push and pull will make communications difficult.
 
By using this illustration, we can engage people in tabletop discussions about common themes in their organization; and, can link their thoughts from the illustration to reality. The critical message is pretty simple,
 
"Don't Just DO Something, Stand There."
 
Take the time to stop pulling the wagon and go find some round wheels!