Implementing a flatter hierarchy can boost innovation by making communication more direct and decision-making faster. In a flatter structure, fewer levels of management separate the top from the bottom, meaning ideas and feedback travel quicker across the organization.^[1]

Here’s how to implement it:

• Reduce layers: Minimize the levels of management. Fewer layers mean fewer barriers to communication and decision-making.
• Encourage decision-making: Give team members more responsibility and the authority to make decisions wherever possible. This boosts their confidence to innovate.
• Encourage open communication: Promote direct communication across all levels of the organization. When everyone can speak freely with anyone, ideas flow more easily.
• Support informal interactions: Create spaces and opportunities for casual conversations. Often, the best ideas come up in an informal environment.
• Encourage collaboration: Encourage teamwork across different groups. Diverse perspectives lead to better problem-solving and more creative solutions.