Participatory vs. Directive Change

Distinction: Participative change Vs. Directive change

Originally Submitted on 9/2/99.

Definitions
Participative change - Change initiated and executed by the participants
Directive change - Change initiated by a leader and executed by the participants

Comparisons
Team vs. Leader Cooperative ownership vs. Compliant ownership
Self-directed vs. Hierarchical

Example
The hierarchical model is being used less and less, with a flatter, more cooperative form developing where every member is a "change agent."

Key Point
Involvement is the key to enthusiastic participation. Neither participative nor directive change making is better than the other and in fact both are necessary. Both require clear direction and participation.

Benefits
Increased commitment to the process is the result of greater involvement in its formulation. The talents, skills and abilities of more of the participants are applied to getting the task(s) defined and accomplished in times of great change.

Related distinctions:
Direction vs. Control Effective vs. Efficient Lead vs. Manage

About the Submitter
This piece was originally submitted by Charles Powell, MCC, Personal Life and Christian Life Coach, who can be reached at sinapup@excite.com, or visited on the web. Charles Powell wants you to know: he is especially skilled at assisting clients in learning phrasing that makes a difference in their success