The LT

The LT leads the organization through the transformation. It relies on the TDT to make recommendations and accomplish much of the detailed planning of specific initiatives, including managing the interrelationships of other outside initiatives. The LT provides the TDT with guidance and direction and sponsors the TDT’s efforts. The LT’s unique contribution is direction and guidance to the organization, serving as the people out in front of the required changes. Leadership casts the vision, presents the burning platform, and shares the manner in which the organization will close the gap between its present state and its vision.

The LT is usually a standing team—that is, a team without a termination date. As a decision-making and advisory body, it is critical that the leader of the LT chooses an open decision-making methodology. Trouble arises when the team misunderstands its role concerning a particular item. The team may believe it is making a decision when the leader is simply getting input from team members. There is a broad array of decision-making formats, including the team making a decision, the team advising the leader, a team member having decision-making authority as a system owner, and the whole team making a recommendation to another body.

The formal leader decides on the areas of decision making open to the LT. The use of a decision-making matrix by the leader is prudent in order to clarify the role of the LT considering particular matters. From our experience in designing effective work teams, we think the ideal team size is between five and seven persons. Less than five members and you might not have the skills needed to perform the tasks at hand. More than seven members and you have difficulty with organizing the work, making decisions, and communicating with each other. Changing yourself, teams, and organizations is a learning process. Understanding that all change is not the same is a beginning. To create a transformative change with its many complexities, having a TDT and a focused LT are essential. On the road to transformation, many organizations have gotten lost. Yes, there is much to do and a great deal of details to attend to. But keeping in mind the five ingredients of change will serve you well as you move forward.