This Company Got Rid of Its Managers and Saw a 20 Percent Increase in Productivity

We all understand the frustration of working with micromanagers. But what would the workplace look like if there were no managers at all? One company, Time Etc., aimed to find out. By adopting a managerless structure, Time Etc. saw a 20 percent increase in productivity and higher employee satisfaction by empowering employees, promoting autonomy, and fostering a collaborative work environment. How did this work, exactly? The company eliminated traditional management roles and implemented a system where employees could make decisions and take ownership of their work. Instead of managers, the company implemented a peer-to-peer review system, where employees evaluated each other’s performance and provided feedback. This system encouraged accountability and allowed for continuous learning and improvement. The company also introduced self-organized teams with the authority to make decisions collectively. These teams collaborated and distributed responsibilities based on expertise and interest, which enabled employees to work on projects they were passionate about. They found the absence of hierarchical structures promoted a culture of equality and open communication. The company also implemented various mechanisms to ensure effective communication and decision making. Regular team meetings, transparent information sharing, and platforms for sharing ideas and feedback contributed to a cohesive and productive work environment. Overall, employees felt empowered, valued, and trusted, which led to increased motivation and engagement. The collaborative environment encouraged knowledge-sharing and fostered a sense of camaraderie among team members.