With additional attention comes additional clarity.
Complexity is the core question, as discussed recently. But what are the choices? Turns out there are three basic answers. One I already discussed, but the other two are better understood in a different way.
How complex is your system?
Is it a simple system? Handle things with simple answers. Individual experts, working largely independently, with bucket lists and goal targeting.
Is it a stable system? Handle things with stability reinforcing answers. Plan your projects. Manage to the plan. Work by schedule. Define processes and tasks.
But what if it’s a changing system? Then handle things with answers that leverage change. You can’t manage the group, you need to rely on natural social systems (tribes). You can’t guide with plans, you must use feedback. You can’t schedule, you have to prioritize. You can’t define processes and tasks, you have to build ceremonies.
Simple, Stable, or Changing? That’s your question. Use the right system for the right problem.