Not Invented Here

I recently met a client who had a telling observation. He remarked that in IT organizations, most supervisor works “one rung” lower. When asked to explain, he stated that most supervisors tend to hang on to their earlier roles, far too long. They believe that if they do not provide continuous oversight, the reporting person would not deliver to the desired outcome.

Why is it so difficult for supervisors to “let go” of their earlier responsibilities? Behavioral scientists link it to “Not Invented Here” syndrome. In other words, it is the unwillingness to adopt an idea or product because it originates from another person or culture. This practice of working down one rung lower continues until it reaches the lowest rung of the organization. 


The end result – inefficiency, dip in productivity and loss of accountability.