In 1989, Elliot Jaques proposed six different, hierarchical strata of work, defined by their complexity (and the time-span of their authority).
Jaques' Six Layers
- Executes against a prescribed, linear path (90 days);
- Can reflect on potential problems and diagnose (3-12 months);
- Understands entire process and has preplanned ways to respond (1-2 years);
- Parallel processes several interacting variables – make trade-offs (2-5 years);
- Applies judgment against constantly shifting events – intuitive and diagnostic challenges (5-10 years);
- Creates an environment for the entire organization to succeed (10-20 years).
I think of these hierarchical layers as levels of leverage that different people, or teams have with their work. Level 6 has more leverage than Level 1, say – because its time-span is longer.
