The 10-80-10 Rule

Created by Vee brad, Modified on Tue, 5 Nov, 2024 at 10:53 PM by Vee brad

The 10-80-10 rule is a framework often used in leadership, decision-making, and team management, particularly in business and entrepreneurial settings. It represents how tasks or responsibilities should be divided between a leader (or manager) and their team to maximize efficiency and empowerment. Here's how it breaks down:

- 10% - Leader Initiates: The leader sets the vision, provides the initial direction, and outlines the desired outcome. They establish the framework, clarify expectations, and provide any essential guidelines for the task or project. This is the "big picture" step where the leader sets things in motion.
- 80% - Team Executes: The team (or those being managed) is responsible for executing the majority of the work. They take the leader's vision and turn it into a reality. The leader empowers the team to handle the details, solve problems, make decisions, and manage the day-to-day activities of the task. This fosters ownership and autonomy, allowing the team to be creative and take responsibility for their role in the outcome.
- 10% - Leader Refines and Finalizes: After the team completes the bulk of the work, the leader returns to review the results, make final adjustments, and ensure the task aligns with the original vision. This is where the leader offers feedback, makes refinements if necessary, and guides the project to completion.

BENEFITS OF THE 10-80-10 RULE:

- Empowerment: It encourages team members to take ownership and lead parts of the project, which can boost motivation and accountability.
- Efficiency: By delegating the majority of the work to the team, leaders can focus on higher-level strategy and decision-making without micromanaging.
- Development: The team gains experience and autonomy by taking on significant responsibility during the 80% phase, fostering growth and development.

In entrepreneurial or leadership settings, the 10-80-10 rule is a balance between setting direction, empowering others, and ensuring quality control. It allows leaders to focus on vision while enabling the team to build competency and take initiative.