normsbased

Norms-Based is a design approach and framework for creating complex systems and organizations. It was developed by Boeing and in conjunction with researchers and other stakeholders to address the need for improved performance, safety, and resilience in high-hazard environments.

The Norms-Based approach is characterized by its explicit focus on establishing clear norms, standards, and expectations that guide behavior and decision-making within an organization. This approach recognizes that organizational performance and outcomes are shaped by the collective actions and choices of individuals, rather than solely by the rules and policies that govern them.

Key aspects of the Norms-Based framework include:

Identifying and establishing clear norms and standards that reflect an organization's values and goals

Developing and socializing these norms through training, communication, and cultural reinforcement

Embedding norms into the fabric of organizational decision-making and behavior

Establishing measures and incentives to promote adherence to these norms

Encouraging continuous learning and improvement through feedback and evaluation

The Norms-Based approach has been applied in a variety of settings, including aviation, healthcare, and defense. Research has demonstrated its potential to improve safety culture, reduce errors and near-miss incidents, and enhance organizational resilience.

Critics of the Norms-Based approach argue that solely focusing on individual behavior can divert attention away from underlying system and structural issues. Additionally, some have raised concerns about the potential for norms to be used as a means of social control or coercion. Nevertheless, proponents argue that Norms-Based offers a valuable complement to more structural and policy-oriented approaches to organizational transformation and improvement.