MBWA – Manage by Walking Around
The MBWA method is a management style that has received a lot of interest because it is a successful way to change the culture of an organization. The method was created by David Packard at Hewlett Packard, a Silicon Valley company that was known for its high levels of productivity and employee satisfaction.
The Manage by Walking Around method was based on the concept that employees, specialists in their niches, should be part of the problem solving process. Employees would form teams to think of and submit new innovative ideas. This is believed to be more effective than sending down instructions from the executive offices.
HP was a believer in wall-less office space and ready access to management that MBWA exemplifies. Management by Walking enabled frequent and informal interactions between staff and management. New ideas were given optimum chance to be developed. The result was a flexible business culture that could embrace change and growth.
With a MBWA method, a supervisor or manager walks amongst the office throughout the work day. He or she can ask questions about new ideas the employees are considering. From those walks, great concepts can be conceived and then be fostered into new product ideas or solutions to productivity problems.
In contrast, if the relationship between the manager and employee is formal, based on fear or intimidation, the system will not work. Employees might dread your visits. They will feel that they must deliver any idea just to impress. To avoid this, the manager should focus on fostering a relaxed atmosphere. The employee must feel free to approach management without the feeling of being judged. Many a company has generated a Manage by Walking concept that consists of little more than wall posters and a suggestion box.
Make your visits enjoyable, and you will obtain outstanding results from the MBWA method. Your company culture will become one in which employees will feel free to move around, and subsequently drop in on you. Not only will things run smoother, but you will be recognized for the achievements that result from your interactions.
