Journeying to the Emerald City

I was one of my employer's thirty-four "leaders" who got to participate in two days of "Accountability Training."

We were taught by Tom Smith, one of the founders of Partners in Leadership, and co-author of Journey to the Emerald City: Implement The Oz Principle to Achieve a Competitive Edge Through a Culture of Accountability.

Our meetings were held off-site at This Is The Place State Park. To be honest, going in I was somewhat skeptical (cynical?) as to what the benefits would be, having lived through several rounds of "the next big thing" before, and having read a number of business books.

I can truthfully say, however, that my expectations were completely exceeded. Tom is an excellent teacher. We've been in need of a change in culture for several years now, and I think we're on the right track. It is rejuvinating, frankly, and one immediate effect is an increase in transparency as certain metrics—previously known only to the executive team—will now be communicated throughout the organization.

For the first time (at least in my six year tenure), everyone will know what we're all working towards, know how to tell where we are at, and have a common language to talk about the attitudes, beliefs, and values we need to get there. With an emphasis on what I can do (each of us, that is), and with as simple as the process control mechanisms are, I think there is a high probability of lasting success.

Check back here in a couple of months, I guess, to know for sure.

—Michael A. Cleverly
Wednesday, February 02, 2005 at 19:53