Catalytic Mechanism

Catalytic Mechanism

One way to counteract the inevitable effects of leadership transitions may be to develop what Jim Collins calls “catalytic mechanisms.” Catalytic mechanisms are changes that trigger multiple actions across the system. By their very nature catalytic mechanisms have a ripple effect—they tend to trigger further actions, often unexpectedly. Since they spread responsibility and accountability over a large part of the organization, catalytic mechanisms are powerful tools for sweeping people into a change effort. Within a child welfare system, catalytic mechanisms can be effective methods for overcoming the impossibility of driving and delivering change.

One example of a catalytic mechanism comes ...