Decision Tree
The ability to create self-reliance in people is one of the most empowering skills you can develop. You will bring out the best in people, they will feel powerful, and they will not feel burdened by your control. Joshua Uebergang

The decision tree identifies what work an employee does and when and how they need to involve others in the decision or communicating the result. Think of the organisation as a tree that we wish to see flourish. In many organisations managers complain that staff will not take responsibility. Go and talk to the very same employees and they will tell you that the managers don’t let them take responsibility!  

By tagging the actions and decisions in a position description with the four components, it makes it clear what an employee can and is expected to do.

Leaf
It’s your responsibility. Just do it. Changing a leaf will not have an impact on the whole organisation. A leaf decision is a minor one within your realm of responsibility. You do not need to report it. Examples: Calling a client to discuss a job, approving payment of an invoice or refund.

Branch
Make the decision. Do it and report on the results in the agreed timeline and format (e.g. monthly review). There is no need to consult others or report immediately. A branch decision is a more major decision within your realm of responsibility and one which others will need to know about, but not today. Examples: Purchasing equipment within your budget, negotiating a contract with a client

Trunk
Trunk decisions are significant but would not alter the fundamental nature of how the business is done. Consult others and you alone make the final decision. Report on the results of trunk decisions immediately to those impacted and provide extensive communication. Examples: Switching suppliers, shifting offices, hiring new staff, building a new distribution channel

Root
Consult and get agreement before going ahead. A root decision has a fundamental impact on others in the business and cannot be taken without agreement. The impact of cutting a root is far greater than pruning a leaf. Examples: Closing a product line, changing the company’s position

Benefits of this metaphor
Creating a shared language is a powerful way to improve communication. The benefits of this metaphor are:
·        It empowers employees by encouraging autonomy
·        Creates clarity in the boundaries of that autonomy
·        Supports personal development
·        Improves decision making
·        Frees up energy
·        Creates accountability

Sources: More on decision trees at www.towerofpower.com.au and
Susan Scott author of Fierce Conversations http://www.fierceinc.com/conversations/

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What are you passionate about?
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What does your industry find hard that you find easy?
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What was your #1 reason that you set up this business in the first place?
Hopefullythe reason is more than just making money.

If I asked your best client about you, what would they say was the reason they chose you?
Try asking them and write down their answer.

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