HiPPO

A high performance team relies heavily on balanced and adaptable decision making process. Therefore, it is important to avoid prioritising the opinions or decisions of the highest-ranking individual based solely on their salary or seniority. Instead, organisations should consider data-driven insights and diverse viewpoints to make informed decisions. The ‘Highest Paid Person’s Opinion’ (HiPPO) antipattern can lead to several detrimental outcomes.

It stifles innovation and creativity within the organisation. Depending solely on the opinions of one individual can result in overlooking or dismissing alternative perspectives and potentially better ideas from other team members. This can limit the organization’s ability to adapt to change and find novel solutions to problems.

Additionally, relying only on the opinion of the highest-paid person can lead to decision-making based on personal biases or limited information. Data-informed decisions, diverse perspectives, and collaborative discussions lead to better outcomes.

The HiPPO antipattern can contribute to a culture of hierarchy and discourage open communication within the organization, but it can be overcome by prioritizing data and open discussion. Team members should not hesitate to challenge higher-ranking individuals if they have valid concerns or alternative viewpoints to contribute. This will encourage healthy debate and enhance the organization’s ability to make well-informed decisions.

More: https://www.jrothman.com/mpd/2022/08/when-hippos-use-their-power-to-decide-for-other-people/