People vs. Systems: What’s the True Key to Organizational Success?

Which is more important for a well-run organization? People, or systems? I know it sounds like a trick question but hear me out.

You would think that people are most important. It seems obvious. Bad people equal bad work, of course.

The problem is, if you have bad systems, you won’t keep good people. If good people feel they cannot be productive where they are, they’re going to do one of two things:

1. They’re going to go somewhere that they can be productive, or
2. They’re going to become bad people (well, non-productive people - I’m not making value judgements here).

So, systems are more important, right?

Well, (and you see where I am going here) good systems with bad people still aren’t going to get you anywhere.

But if you put good people (those who fit your culture and care about your company) inside a good system, (well-designed for management and goal setting), then look out. I believe that if you find the right purpose for your organization, the right people to carry it out, and the right systems in place to achieve it, then nothing can stop you.

Reflective Questions

1. Where is your organization the weakest- people or systems?
2. How can you capitalize on your strengths?
3. What can you do to grow?

If there is anything we can do to help, let us know.