The Need for Organisational Resilience - Chapter 4

The objective of the task (an image of the desired outcome). The objective of the task is

conveyed through a representation or image of the end-state, and what the successfully

completed request will look like. (Klein 1999, 226)

The sequence of steps in the plan. This step in defining an intent produces − in general

terms − a plan that outlines a sequence for how to reach the desired objective. This should

not be mistaken for a detailed work breakdown structure that needs to be rigidly obeyed. It is

a plan that provides general direction and alignment.

The rationale for the plan. The reasoning behind the plan makes people understand why

the sequence of steps in the plan has been suggested. Given that they have autonomy to

deviate from the suggested plan, this step enhances understanding about how to implement

it and when it might be appropriate to deviate from the suggested How.

The key decisions that may have to be made. Deviations from a suggested plan include

the key decision to change direction and alignment. Key decisions and priorities are part of

conveying an intent, providing people with the readiness to enact key decisions to match a

changing situation.

Antigoals (unwanted outcomes). Antigoals are undesired objectives. They define what

‘must’ not or ‘should’ not go wrong. Antigoals represent an opposite pole to the desired

outcome, and hence boundaries are defined for the outcome that is desired and the outcome

that is to be avoided.

Constraints and other considerations. The final step in defining and conveying Intent is

the definition of what aspects of the environment constrain the accomplishment of an

objective − what to ‘watch out for’. It may also include limitations on the degree of autonomy,

or limitations on the resources necessary to exercise such autonomy.

[Text Box starts] Communicating Intent

Communicating intent can be surprisingly difficult to achieve, particularly when language and cultural

barriers get in the way. Montgomery used simple speech patterns and phrases when speaking to his

soldiers, pitched at a level where reasonably complex ideas could be articulated, but using a simple

vocabulary that would normally be associated with a 14 year-old. He was rarely misunderstood. Care

should be taken in a multinational environment. Metaphors that add much colour to the English

language rarely translate well. Moreover, a large proportion of communication is nonverbal, using

gestures and body-language. Therefore, face-to-face communication is often the most effective

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