a“Your team is your boss because you don’t want to let them down. Everyone’s your boss, and no one’s your boss.” (Deutschman)
Flat hierarchy system, which follows the “no boss” approach has been proven to be a successful way to run a business, like Fast company. While it is true that flat hierarchy does not follow Greiner’s stages of revolution and evolution that a company should ultimately follow throughout its lifetime it sets itself exclusive to its traditional working manner. It looks for companies with “a long history of innovation […] that doesn’t depend on the ingenuity of a single individual or even a small cadre of geniuses” (Deuschman). This exceptional system recognizes people for their talents and gives them the opportunity to flourish as individuals, while gaining experience and knowledge as a team. I think that Herzberg is mistaken when it comes to motivating employees because he overlooks motivation between coworkers. Group work creates friendships, and friendships lead to help, advice, and motivation. Deutschman’s theory is very useful because he sheds light on the interesting fact that people talk to one another freely without regard for the chain of command. While it is true that a chain of command “pushes” employees to work, such as KITA, described by Herzberg, it does not necessarily follow that employees will do it well, or even do it at all. By being part of a group, every individual is responsible for one another, therefore, it is only normal that every team member naturally encourages the other, creating a positive, motivated and determined environment. It is conclusive that flat hierarchies are a successful way to run a business and create a better environment, which is the key to a successful organization or