☘️ Handy''s Shamrock Organization
Big Idea: Charles Handy proposed that modern organizations have three types of workers, like the three leaves of a shamrock.
- Core workers — full-time, permanent professionals essential to the business. Well-paid, committed, hard to replace
- Flexible workers — part-time, temporary or contract workers hired when needed. Cheaper but less committed
- Outsourced workers — specialists or companies contracted for specific tasks (IT, cleaning, accounting). Expertise without permanent cost
A tech startup: 10 core developers (permanent), 5 freelance designers (flexible), and an outsourced accounting firm. This keeps costs low while maintaining key expertise.
Tap each leaf to explore the three types of workers in Handy's Shamrock
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📐 Project-Based Structures
In a project-based structure, teams are formed around specific projects rather than permanent departments.
- Teams are temporary — assembled for a project, disbanded when complete
- Members may come from different functional areas (cross-functional teams)
- A project manager leads each team
- Common in consulting, construction, film, software development
Advantages
- Flexible — adapts to changing business needs
- Brings together diverse expertise
- Clear focus on deliverables and deadlines
- Encourages innovation and collaboration
Disadvantages
- Lack of stability for employees
- Knowledge can be lost when teams disband
- Potential conflicts between project managers and functional managers
- Difficult to build long-term team culture