In math, we all learned to follow the order of operations to get the right answer. The same principle applies to organizational design—but too often, companies get the sequence wrong. Instead of designing structure around the work that needs to get done, they design around the people they want to reward or want to keep. It might feel expedient, but it leads to confusion, rework, and instability – or maybe the dreaded Franken Org.
This article introduces a practical alternative: the FORTH model, a work-first approach to organizational design. The sequence—Function, Organization, Role, Title, Human—helps leaders design around the work and strategy first, not personalities or politics.
By following FORTH, companies avoid the common pitfalls of people-first design: unclear accountability, endless reorganizations, and unhealthy power dynamics. Instead, they create a stable foundation that supports performance, decision-making, and growth.
The next time you’re making structural organizational changes, ask yourself: Are we designing around the work, or around individuals? The answer could be the difference between clarity and chaos.
Read the full article to learn more about designing around the work versus people: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/organizational-order-operations-why-structure-should-follow-sherlock-1dgfe/?trackingId=vr5F9yfuter8mMU8d%2BH1lQ%3D%3D
