How collective intelligence practices can help keep companies stay afloat against COVID-19

Decentralise or die

It’s no great secret that we’re in uncharted territory with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Companies that live to see the end of this crisis and beyond will, without a doubt, be changed forever by its impacts. Whether it’s a crisis plan readily put together by all departments in case of a future outbreak or a renewed push for a workplace that’s driven by digital collaboration, controlling circumstances is of the highest priority. Which is why these factors and many others weigh heavily on companies now and very likely will be central to their success in future.

Decentralising the structure of traditional businesses and promoting autonomy not guided entirely by top to bottom governance is seeing many companies through the rough seas of this crisis.

Adaptation is the natural state of all companies who experience some kind of hardship that directly impacts how they do business. Think of examples like restaurants, cafes and bars opening their kitchens to provide take-home meals, or industrial part suppliers refitting 3D printers to create much needed medical supplies.

The sad truth is, however, that some businesses will find it harder to adapt than others. Whether through the rigidity of their corporate structure or the industry they exist in, many operators throughout the world will inevitably close their doors before COVID-19 heaves its last dying breath.

But there is hope for companies struggling to change their ways to better fit with the current climate.

Decentralising the structure of traditional businesses and promoting autonomy not guided entirely by top to bottom governance is seeing many companies through the rough seas of this crisis.

Although, it may be less the case that companies are embracing these virtues and more that factors such as social distancing and working from home are forcing them to take another look at how their entire operation functions.