Adopting a Jazz Ensemble Approach for Organizational Crisis Management

In the midst of unforeseen crises, organizational leaders may discover advantages by embracing the improvisational nature of a jazz ensemble to enhance resourcefulness, as indicated by a new study from Rice University. Much like a musical group that adeptly adapts their performance in real-time, leaders could adopt similar dynamics to handle challenging situations more effectively.

Study Emphasizes Resourcefulness During Crises

The research, led by Scott Sonenshein, the Henry Gardiner Symonds Professor of Management at Rice University, explored how organizations navigated the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. By examining two well-known performing arts organizations, researchers concluded that a nimble and creative approach, akin to that of a jazz band, significantly influenced both the staff's ability to adapt and the organization's overall well-being.

Inspirations from the Houston Symphony

One of the study's highlights is the Houston Symphony, which discarded its conventional long-term planning in favor of short-term, flexible strategies. By doing so, the Symphony uncovered new opportunities, both in content creation and audience engagement. This innovative mindset was supported by a management team that valued transparency and trust, empowering employees to be proactive in these uncertain times.

Cultivating an Experimental Mindset

The research further indicates the importance of agency within the organization. When management cultivates a 'can-do attitude', it instills confidence in employees to utilize available resources creatively. The study cites feedback from symphony members who felt enabled by their leadership to take calculated risks, fostering a sense of control amid the crisis.

Implications for Organizational Resilience

The findings from this study provide valuable insights into building organizational resilience. According to Sonenshein and his team, the mechanisms uncovered show how entities can retain their adaptability and overcome adversity through the inventive use of resources and a collaborative team spirit that mirrors that of a jazz ensemble.

leadership, crisis, adaptability