The Accountability/Alignment Process: Three Steps to an Accountable Organization

The Accountability/Alignment Process: ThreeAlignment clarifies the practice of accountability; it
Steps to an Accountable Organizationfocuses energy and eliminates distractions across
Generating genuine accountability and functionalthe entire organization. It also provides a renewed
alignment into your workplace cannot be left tosense of confidence and interdependence based
vague ambitions and abstract statements. Wellon a publicly declared promise to deliver business
designed processes must be embedded into theresults.
heart of an organization to ensure that eachStep 3: Achievement
employee's goals and expectations are clearlyThe Accountability/Alignment process brings
defined and that the resources to bring aboutimmediate results, but lasting achievement is
specific measurable results are in place.gained through maintaining the discipline fostered
In our recent book, Aligned Like a Laser, weby the process.
outline an effective three step process forThere are several ways to ensure that
ensuring managers and employees are mutuallyAccountability/Alignment brings long term
accountable and that the entire organization isachievement.
aligned toward specific goals.Keep Accountability Agreements Visible
The Accountability/Alignment process has threePost progress reports in prominent locations.
fundamental steps:Provide a forum for people to comment on
(1) Accountabilityprogress.
(2) AlignmentPut Accountability Agreements Online
(3) and AchievementA company's intranet can provide easy access to
These steps shape the essential foundation forall Accountability Agreements.
the practice of accountability and workplaceOr, use our Align Online tool. Visit for more
alignment.information.
Step 1: AccountabilityModel Accountability
Accountability is articulated through a documentLeaders must set an example and share
called an Accountability Agreement. ThisAccountability Agreements widely.
document forms a context for success byAlso, references should be made to Accountability
making each individual's contribution visible withinAgreements in reports and presentations.
the organization. It is a brief - 2 to 3 page -Synchronize the Process
overview of the outcomes that an individual isLink accountability to related processes such as
promising to deliver which also outlines thegoal setting and performance management.
support and resources that he or she needs fromUse accountability to prevent duplication of effort.
others in order to achieve these results.Ensure Business Results
Seven Elements of an Accountability Agreement:Accountability is not about shifting blame; it
(1) Business Focus Statementembraces a process of mutual support and
(2) Operational Accountabilitieslearning to ensure that goals are achieved.
(3) Leadership AccountabilitiesAccountability Agreements can be modified
(4) Support Requirementsaccording to past lessons and to better adhere to
(5) Goalsnew circumstances.
(6) Sustainment PlanThe Accountable Workplace
(7) Positive ConsequencesThe alignment process legitimizes raising difficult
Step 2: Alignmentconversations, creates a positive context for
Alignment requires a constructive businessresolving disagreements, and builds an
dialogue focused on end results. After completingenvironment of mutual support. Improving an
Accountability Agreements, a workgrouporganization can be a gamble, yet successful
negotiates responsibilities and forms anorganizational effectiveness initiatives have proven
understanding of each member's contribution toto be invaluable relative to the time invested. The
the team.Accountability/Alignment process can revitalize a
The alignment process involves resolving gaps andworkplace, focus attention on shared goals, and
overlaps in the team's accountabilities, and itsustain a new way of working across an
ensures that each member agrees to provide theorganization.
critical support needed to fulfil the team's purpose.