The Way Out of the Conundrum

Disruption has an inherited negative connotation, as it is mainly considered a disturbance. The constant increase in the rate of disruption occurrences calls for actions to counter the norm. Companies need to create an internal mechanism that will help them respond effectively to any form of disruption, either systemic or external. Ambidexterity and innovation are the only ways out of the conundrum if disruption is to be treated as an opportunity long before it is a threat.

With that end in mind, leaders need to acknowledge the efficiency of artificial intelligence and algorithmic decision-making, given their built-in design and ability to respond and cope with disruption.

Thus, leaders need to identify and implement the right mix of strategies that will allow them to exploit the present and explore the future. This can be successfully achieved with a novel modus operandi of a tightly integrated senior team and an engaged workforce.

Strategies may be more easily disrupted than people though, and once more the challenge lies in human behaviors and mindsets. Strategy alignment is not sufficient as long as leadership mindsets remain within the norm.