John Seddon - a Must-See Video

A few weeks ago councillors were entertained by one of the Powerpoint presentations we get from time to time from senior officers. I forget the exact topic. But never mind because they’re all basically the same. Along the lines of: “Ways to achieve efficiency savings while making vast rapid improvements in service X & Y”.

They referred to the diktat helpful advice from the Audit Commission and Government. And also to various consultants with names like I-of-Newt who are “addressing” these problems on our behalf. About halfway through I realised the route-map proposed meant that we would have to move in two opposite directions at once. Worse, when I pointed this out, senior officers seemed completely unfazed. Perhaps, like the White Queen, they practised believing as many as six impossible things before breakfast.

My particular wonderment related to proposals for change based on improvement of workflow; while at the same time working to arbitrary targets.

Many Hol members may recall that I’m a great fan of John Seddon. He has comprehensively debunked all the nonsense about: targets; stars; league tables; back office/front office etc. So I’m delighted to recommend a free, fifty-five minute, high quality video where Mr Seddon is blunter, clearer and funnier than ever about what’s gone wrong with public service management.

The video is called “Cultural Change is Free”. Here’s the link.

I don't agree with everything he says; and you may not either. But I’d very much enjoy seeing people’s comments and criticisms.