Knowledge Resource Centre

Catalytic Mechanisms

An approach to strategy implementation and organisational effectiveness involving alternative methods of achieving problem solving, compared to process-led or prescriptive methods. Catalytic mechanisms provide ways of getting employees to solve problems whilst not prescribing the methods they should adopt. The mechanisms are unpredictable, but aim to distribute power for the good of the organisation, rather than focusing it. They align people with the core company values, and they produce ongoing effects, rather than coming to an abrupt end.