Does Your Business Have a Culture of Accountability?

 

One of the biggest issues that companies face is the issue of accountability – ensuring that the decisions and strategies they undertake have a designated individual who can be responsible for them.

While this seems obvious, accountability is something that many companies struggle with. Setting up a system where individuals have to take responsibility for certain projects and developments can be difficult, especially if passing the buck has become a part of the company culture.

So how can companies develop a greater sense of accountability within their operations? Here are three steps.

1) Set clear goals

Introducing greater accountability into your company operations can only be realized if you can take the time to set clear goals relating to this initiative. While accountability itself isn’t something that can easily be turned into a goal, it is still possible to measure the outcomes of greater accountability.

If, for example, you are thinking about implementing software as a way to measure project outcomes, look for initiatives that are struggling and then set goals that can address these shortcomings.

2) Develop strong reporting practices

Information has become key to the way businesses operate, and the same is certainly true when it comes to assigning responsibility for company strategy. Implementing a framework here is going to be an easy way for companies to develop stronger internal processes.

One way to achieve this is to look at ways to implement a technology solution like StrategyBlocks. This strategy planning software makes it easy to assign responsibility for a project, and gives senior managers a simple overview of how a project is developing.

3) Lead by example

Accountability has to start at the top and filter down to other parts of the company, otherwise it is not going to be an effective approach. Even among senior executives, accountability can be difficult to develop, making it important to start at the very top.

At the same time, it is important not to overlook the value of middle management. Because they will be much more visible within the company, your managers are likely to play a big role in undertaking a cultural shift towards a more accountable office environment.