Overinstitutionalisation

Overinstitutionalisation refers to a situation where formal institutions, such as governments, legal systems, or large organizations, become overly dominant and rigid, potentially hindering flexibility, innovation, and individual autonomy. This can occur when rules, procedures, and bureaucratic structures become excessively complex or numerous, leading to a slow and inefficient response to changing circumstances. While institutions are necessary for order and stability, overinstitutionalisation can stifle initiative and make it difficult for individuals or smaller groups to operate effectively. This can manifest in various sectors, from public administration to corporate environments, where a focus on process can overshadow the achievement of actual goals. The consequences can include a lack of adaptability, a reduction in creative problem-solving, and a sense of disempowerment among those affected by the rigid structures. Finding a balance between the necessary functions of institutions and the need for agility and individual agency is a recurring challenge in organizational and societal development.