We've all heard it before - "if it we haven't thought of it then it isn't worth doing." "No one knows our business better than we do." This attitude is referred to as the "not invented here" syndrome. Consultants have seen it for years. Department managers and employees use it to fend off outside influence from other departments or intervention from consultants or advisors. Regardless of where the invasion is coming from, protectionism is the defense.
"Not invented here" is a cliché. But like many clichés or popular beliefs, we tend to think there is truth in the statement. However, "not invented here", is a problem and it serves as a form of organizational resistance to change. "Not invented here" conveys an important message - "if I am not involved with defining the situation and working on solutions, then I am not interested in your ideas, opinions or solutions."
When an organization is facing a challenge, it has 3 options:
1. Do nothing
2. Understand the challenge and create solutions
3. Hire outside help to assess and facilitate the solutions.
Assuming that the challenge is real and that it presents a threat to the organization...
. Option One will lead to a further deterioration in organizational performance.
. Option Two will work if the members of the organization possess the skills, knowledge, objectivity and support to identify and implement the required change.
. Option Three will work if it is combined with Option Two. Read more...