Summary
Parkinson observed that bureaucracies grow 5–7% annually—regardless of workload. The rise of bureaucracies is my primary criticism of organizations in America. They constitute barriers to progress, rapid advancement, and act as a counter force to profitability. Government, institutions, and non-profits are the best examples. The administrative state, including monopoly-based labor unions, public employees, and the public education system, is at the very top of the list.
Why? Two powerful forces:
✅ Managers multiply subordinates, not rivals.
✅ Officials create work for each other.
The result: Layers of complexity, endless meetings, and decision-making gridlock.
His warning still applies today:
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Keep teams lean.
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Set clear priorities.
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Resist the urge to “add more people” as the default solution.
Question for you:
What’s one strategy you use to keep bureaucracy in check in your organization?
#Leadership #Management #ParkinsonsLaw #BusinessEfficiency #Productivity