Initiating Change: Breaking Rules at the Interface

Rules and norms provide stability and order within organizations. Innovation and change often requires breaking rules and deviating from norms. However, such discrepant behaviour can be risky for employees. They often face resistance, backlash and conflict in initiating change. At the organization level, strict adherence to rules can lead to stagnation and inertia. The 2017 All Academy Theme inspires us to examine how innovation and change can be fuelled by breaking rules “At the Interfacex. Interfaces are interstitial spaces where employees may be able to push boundaries and break or bend rules with impunity. For organizations, interfaces can be hot beds for innovations and change initiatives. This panel symposium will involve a group of experts who will explore the potential of interfaces at both individual and organizational levels."