Overnormalisation

Overnormalisation is a term used to describe a situation where a system or process becomes excessively focused on adherence to rules, procedures, and standards, often to the detriment of its original purpose or effectiveness. This can occur in various contexts, including organizations, bureaucratic systems, and even social interactions. The emphasis shifts from achieving desired outcomes to meticulously following established protocols.

The phenomenon of overnormalisation can lead to a loss of flexibility and innovation. When individuals or teams are overly concerned with compliance, they may be hesitant to deviate from the norm, even if a different approach would be more efficient or beneficial. This can stifle creativity and prevent the adaptation to changing circumstances. Furthermore, an overemphasis on rules can create a culture of fear, where mistakes are avoided at all costs, leading to a reluctance to take initiative or responsibility.

In bureaucratic settings, overnormalisation can result in excessive paperwork, lengthy approval processes, and a general sense of inefficiency. Decision-making can become slow and cumbersome as every step must be documented and justified according to established guidelines. While some level of standardization is necessary for consistency and fairness, overnormalisation suggests that this pursuit has gone too far, creating more problems than it solves. Identifying and addressing overnormalisation often involves a critical review of existing procedures and a conscious effort to re-prioritize goals and outcomes over rigid adherence to process.