Two in a BOX Style of Management

Definition

“Two-in-a-Box” is a style of management in which two individuals are jointly responsible to manage an organization. On the organization chart two names are listed in “one box”. It has also been called, “Management Pairing,” or sometimes affectionately known as “Two-Headed” Managers. It is not common practice and can have a negative effect if not designed or executed well. However, when required by business conditions and when executed well, it delivers better organizational performance than a single manager could obtain in the same situation. It exists in companies only at highest levels of management.

Types of “Two in a Box”

- Senior and Junior
- Peer to Peer
- Client Facing and Backend Operations
- Technical and Business
- Projects and Operational
- Strategic and Tactical

When to use “Two in a Box”

In the vast majority of cases the primary reason for using this management tool is to pair two managers with complementary skills so that the organization can have the benefit of persons’ experience, expertise, and perspective.

Typical Cases/Scenarios

- A job with very broad scope
- Very complex organization
- Start-up or reorganization situation
- As a succession planning tool

Advantages of Two in a Box

– Better quality of decisions
– Role models collaboration to balance strategic/tactical
– Management coverage is always available
– Provides excellent learning environment for both managers
– Enables both the managers to improve their skills
– Effective Tool for grooming future successor

Disadvantages of “Two in a Box”

– Requires a high level of management maturity
– High overhead cost – Salaries for 2 managers
– Can be used as a “COP OUT” Technique; Used to Select a Manager
– Decision making is slow if communication is not effective
– Can limit both partners in responsibility and accountability
– Subordinates can use situation to their advantages (playing mom and dad against each other)

Examples of Companies using “Two in a Box” Model

Intel Corporation

Intel has evolved the structure and discipline and introduced it at nearly all levels of management. It has also evolved in purpose. Initially, many pairings were done defensively or in reaction to a manager who was struggling. It is used at many levels in IT and is transparent to the client

Cognizant Technologies

Cognizant Technologies uses this relationship model in Global IT Services Delivery. Cognizant embeds personnel with demonstrated domain experience in the client organization to help drive IT strategy and ensure business alignment. This model helps Global Companies achieve better returns on their IT outsourcing initiatives. It is fundamental to the Company’s business model, culture, operating philosophy and organizational hierarchy.

Success of “Two in a Box”

The following will increase the likelihood of success:

- Make roles, responsibilities and expectations very clear
- Mutual Trust and good Communication
- Identify a senior partner if appropriate
- Avoid putting managers in direct competition
- Discuss career development plans for the pair up front
- Identify successful role models.
- Ability to share power
- Recognize and reward successful collaboration

Conclusion

Although this is an effective tool, it must be used with caution. There is no out of the box solution and every company needs to adjust this as per their requirements.