Building a Common Language for Collaboration
Achieving true collaboration across different functions and teams within an organisation requires a shared understanding and common language. By establishing a universal way of communicating and mapping processes, companies can overcome the "Business vs. IT" problem and enable effective coordination and alignment.
The Problem with Specialised Jargon
Klingon Finance
Finance teams often use highly specialised terminology that is incomprehensible to those outside the function.
IT Team
Similarly, IT departments can be guilty of using overly technical language that confuses the business side.
The Translation Challenge
Without a common frame of reference, it becomes very difficult for these groups to effectively collaborate and coordinate.
The Importance of a Common Language
When teams use different frameworks, diagrams, and terminology to describe the same concepts, it creates confusion, misalignment, and errors. This makes it extremely difficult to collaborate effectively. A common language, like a standardised set of maps and visualisations, allows everyone to speak the same "dialect" and work together seamlessly.
Mapping as a Unifying Tool
Just as a map helps a soldier and a sailor collaborate, a common set of visualisations and models can bridge the gap between different functions within a company. By collectively agreeing on how to map and represent key business processes, information flows, and systems, teams can establish a shared language for collaboration.
The Role of "Translators"
While a common language is ideal, in reality many organisations still struggle with siloed thinking and specialised jargon. In these cases, individuals skilled in multiple domains can act as "translators", bridging the gap between different groups and enabling effective collaboration.
Starting the Mapping Process
Begin by mapping out the key business processes, information flows, and systems that are critical to your organisation. Collaboratively choose a standardised set of visualisations (e.g. diagrams, flowcharts, swimlanes) to represent these processes. Then roll out the agreed-upon mapping framework across the organisation and encourage consistent usage.
Benefits of a Common Language
Improved Alignment
A shared language and mapping system enables better coordination and synchronisation between teams.
Reduced Errors
Eliminating translation issues and misunderstandings leads to fewer mistakes and more efficient operations.
Enhanced Collaboration
With everyone speaking the same "dialect", cross-functional collaboration becomes much more seamless and productive.
Taking the First Step
The path to establishing a common language for your organisation may seem daunting, but the benefits are well worth the effort. Start by identifying key processes and agreeing on a unified visualisation framework. With commitment and consistency, you can break down silos and enable true collaborative success.