FLOX is a lightweight framework for running self-organizing teams from the folks at NOBL. It’s quite compelling in its simplicity, consisting only of 2 “habits” and 4 “rules”.
Habits
- Flocking – A kick-off session where the team co-create their own “FlightPath” – the strategies, structures and systems to do their work. Guidelines for running a “Flocking” session can be found here.
- Steering – A monthly session in which the team reflects on past outcomes and sets new goals. This discussion results in a clear plan of action and refreshed “FlightPath” that continues to guide the team.Guidelines for running “Steering” session can be found here.
Rules
#1 Steer toward your customer – serve the needs of an external or internal customer:
- Identify your team’s customer
- Assess their unmet and emerging needs
- Plot a strategic direction
- Test and respond to change
#2 Steer toward alignment – foster effective cross-communication and collaboration:
- Diagnose internal misalignment
- Increase the flow of information
- Codify and consent-based decision-making model
- Establish healthy interpersonal rituals
#3 Steer toward autonomy – empower safe-to-fail risk-taking without interference:
- Grow cross-functionally
- Define your test-and-learn process
- Hone your rapid prototyping skills
- Budget responsively
#4 Steer toward simplicity – reduce and resist unnecessary complexity:
- Learn to recognize complexity
- Approach complex problems differently
- Resist increasing complexity as you scale
- Periodically test-and-learn to reduce internal complexity
