FAQs > Everything you always wanted to know about Liberating Structures! > What traditional top-down assumptions do Liberating Structures challenge?
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Two implicit assumptions underpin top down traditions:
- the “vast majority” have little or nothing to contribute that could make a significant difference (i.e. bottom-up is useless);
- the “vast majority” will be willing (i.e. will offer no resistance) and capable of rapidly and effectively implementing decisions from which it was excluded.
We all know those assumptions are not valid but conventional structures force us to exclude the vast majority in shaping their future. Therefore, huge opportunities exist for organizations that find ways to effectively and authentically engage their “vast majority” (including in many cases customers). This is precisely what LS do and, frequently, formal leaders are relieved, delighted and surprised by the opportunities that open up with LS use.
Last updated on May 30, 2012 by Keith McCandless
