In the fast-paced world of business, adaptability and innovation are key to success. Traditional methods of organizational scaling and management often fall short in the face of today’s dynamic challenges. That’s where unFIX, a groundbreaking concept developed by Jurgen Appelo, comes into play. He developed a fresh and context-based approach to organizational development (OD), offering a unique perspective on scaling and managing companies. In this blog, we’ll explore what makes unFIX different from popular frameworks like SAFe, LeSS, or Holacracy.
unFIX: A New Perspective on Organizational Scaling
Unlike many other organizational scaling frameworks, unFIX isn’t a rigid set of rules and procedures. Instead, it provides an adaptive approach to your organization’s unique needs and circumstances. This flexibility is a breath of fresh air, allowing companies to innovate and grow in ways that are most suitable for them.
When I learned about it I tried it out myself and visualized NuWorks, and it was quite some fun doing it.
Putting People at the Center
One of the most striking aspects of unFIX is its emphasis on people. Unlike some other frameworks that can seem impersonal, unFIX uses colourful images, with each person represented by a smiley face. This visual representation serves as a constant reminder that organizations are made up of individuals, and their well-being and happiness are critical for success. This focus on people is not only refreshing but also essential for building a positive and productive work environment.
Not Limited to IT Companies
Many scaling frameworks are designed primarily for IT companies, leaving other industries struggling to adapt their principles. unFIX, on the other hand, is not bound by industry. Its adaptability and context-based approach make it applicable to a wide range of businesses, like insurance, hospitals, and barber shops (why not :). It can be tailored to suit your organization’s specific needs, regardless of your sector.
A Fun and Creative Process
Have you ever tried to visualize your organization’s structure and goals? unFIX makes it a fun and engaging experience. You can use a Miro template to create a visual representation of your company, which allows for creative exploration of different aspects of your organization. This visual approach not only helps with understanding but also fosters creativity and engagement among team members.
Beyond Scaling: Great Practices
unFIX isn’t just about scaling your organization; it also offers a wealth of valuable practices. One such practice is “Jobs-to-be-done,” which focuses on understanding and meeting the needs of customers. Just as unFIX puts people at the centre of organizational development, it recognizes the importance of putting customers first. By identifying and addressing the needs of the customers, your organization can better meet their expectations and thrive in the market.
The Road Ahead
unFIX started in 2022, it is still a new and evolving concept, which makes it an exciting frontier for those looking to pioneer new methods of organizational development. If you’re curious about unFIX and its potential benefits, you’ll be pleased to know that workshops are already in the works. NuWorks became an official partner and is preparing to offer the first unFIX workshop in Japan. Join the journey and delight yourself with new insights, best practices, and innovative solutions for scaling and managing organizations. Join a workshop now!
In conclusion, unFIX represents a refreshing and adaptable approach to organizational scaling and management. It puts people at the centre, making it a more human-centric method, and it’s not confined to specific industries, offering a versatile solution for various businesses. If you’re interested in embracing change, fostering creativity, and staying ahead in today’s competitive market, unFIX might be the concept you’ve been looking for. Stay tuned for more developments as unFIX continues to evolve and creates better organisations.
