Lose the Siloed Workplace
Usha Kakaria-Cayaux, Chief Human Resources Officer at Ofi, astutely observes, "Harvard University research underscores the value of horizontal teamwork. Employees who can reach outside their direct area of accountability (silo) to find colleagues with complementary expertise learn more, sell more, gain skills faster, and innovate better."
Defining Horizontal Work
Horizontal work refers to a collaborative approach where employees from various departments and specialties come together to achieve common goals. Unlike traditional vertical structures, where communication and collaboration are often confined within departmental boundaries, horizontal teamwork encourages employees to reach across these boundaries, fostering a more integrated and cohesive working environment.
The Value of Horizontal Teamwork
Enhanced Learning and Skill Acquisition
When employees collaborate across departments, they are exposed to a diverse range of skills and knowledge. This cross-functional interaction accelerates learning and skill acquisition, enabling employees to broaden their expertise beyond their primary roles. For instance, a marketing professional working closely with the IT department might gain insights into data analytics, enhancing their ability to make data-driven decisions.
Increased Sales and Customer Satisfaction
Horizontal teamwork can also lead to improved sales performance and customer satisfaction. By leveraging complementary expertise, teams can develop more innovative solutions and deliver superior products and services. Sales teams, for example, can work with product development to better understand the features and benefits of a new product, thereby improving their pitch and ultimately boosting sales.
Faster Innovation and Problem-Solving
Innovation thrives in environments where diverse ideas and perspectives intersect. Horizontal teamwork creates such an environment, allowing for more effective brainstorming and problem-solving. When employees from different departments collaborate, they bring unique viewpoints and experiences to the table, leading to more creative and innovative solutions.
Breaking Down Silos
One of the most significant benefits of horizontal teamwork is the breakdown of organizational silos. Silos often hinder communication, collaboration, and overall efficiency. By encouraging horizontal interactions, companies can create a more open and inclusive culture where information flows freely, and employees feel empowered to contribute to the organization's success.
Implementing Horizontal Teamwork in Your Organization
Foster a Collaborative Culture
To promote horizontal teamwork, organizations must cultivate a culture of collaboration. This involves encouraging open communication, valuing diverse perspectives, and recognizing the contributions of cross-functional teams. Leadership should actively support and model collaborative behaviors.
Provide Opportunities for Cross-Functional Projects
Create opportunities for employees to work on cross-functional projects. These projects should have clear goals and be structured to require input and collaboration from multiple departments. This not only helps in achieving project objectives but also fosters stronger interdepartmental relationships.
Utilize Collaborative Tools and Technologies
Investing in collaborative tools and technologies can facilitate horizontal teamwork. Platforms like project management software, communication tools, and collaborative workspaces enable seamless interaction and information sharing among team members, regardless of their departmental affiliations.
Encourage Cross-Training and Skill Development
Encouraging cross-training and continuous skill development can also support horizontal teamwork. By providing employees with opportunities to learn about other departments and acquire new skills, organizations can create a more versatile and adaptable workforce.
In conclusion, losing the siloed workplace and embracing horizontal teamwork is essential for modern organizations aiming to thrive in a competitive landscape. By fostering a culture of collaboration, providing opportunities for cross-functional projects, utilizing collaborative tools, and encouraging continuous skill development, companies can unlock the full potential of their workforce. As Harvard University research and industry leaders like Usha Kakaria-Cayaux highlight, the benefits of horizontal teamwork are clear: enhanced learning, increased sales, faster innovation, and a more cohesive organizational culture. It's time to break down the silos and build a more integrated and successful future.