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Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Life Boat Rule


One of the saddest things in management is the gold star looming on the project plan that says, “Breakthrough required HERE!”

Next time you are faced with a thorny problem, consider using the Life Boat Rule.

The Life Boat Rule is You have to make it with your current crew, no substitutions.

When I remember the Life Boat Rule, I save a lot of time, not mooning for some random waterwalker.

Our solution is based on existing skills and our best technologies. We know what we’ve got, and spend less time reading directions and hacking our way out of failed prototypes.

When I am recruiting, remembering the Life Boat Rule has SOMETIMES stopped a dumb selection.

After my crew understands the Life Boat Rule, people are faster to step up for what is required. As my good friend John Wayne used to say between movies, “A man’s gotta do what a man’s gotta do.”

Of course when we’re all fully committed to using our existing talent and resources and nicely making way, we look a lot better to some random water walker if one happens by.

Your Comment?

February 22nd Sales Lab’s Rainmaker 12 is WhatHave I Done for You Lately? at the Capital Technology Management Hub on Wednesday, February 22nd. The featured CTMH speaker will be Sean Crowley on the topic of The Open Source Web Content Management Platform, Drupal, and its Momentum.

2 comments:

Jack said...

The difference between dreaming and leading is telling the truth to yourself.

The coach can recruit for future teams, but must field a team for today's game from the current roster.

When the leader is moving the organization forward, the starting lineup is from who is available right now. Supplementation with new hires and consultants over time, but additional time is required before the 'recruits' can hit full stride.

The life boat rule is a good reminder of reality, and a quick indicator of dreaming or leading.

Good post - Thanks!

Thoughthebrowser said...

Aiyee! The difference between dreaming and leading is telling the truth to yourself.
Jack, you are getting perilously close to Art!
Thank you!