Catchball: word used in baseball which means « the throwing and catching of the balls ». It is written in Japanese as follows: キャチボール.
What is Catchball?
Remember a childhood game where kid stand in front of each other or in a circle passing ball and catching. Catchball is similar concept in term organizational context, it creates bi-directional or two-way feedback loop as in the game of catch where everyone knows who is next in line for the action. It is a method for instilling intention with precision through different people. In the process of Policy Deployment (Hoshin Kanri), the Catch Ball sessions are the ideal moment where the Manager and his team define and validate together the different indicators. It is necessary to first understand the words and the intention of the person and then respond correctly. It is an essential spirit of communication in the company.
Working Methodology:
Catchball work as a technique where managers Initiate ideas for management objectives of his team. The team then provide their input and ideas in return. Regardless of who initiates a Idea that leader generates the purpose, objectives and other concerns and then 'throws' them to the other team members for feedback, support and action. Process is repeated until it reaches a general agreement. Head of Departments then repeat the process with their managers, and so on, until the goals spreads across the organization.
Why is Catchball Important?
- Catchball is most suitable for complex processes when many functions or departments are going to be involved.
- It brings clarity in ownership and accountability
- Increase information sharing, feedback, and ideas from people at all levels across the organization.
- Speed up the process of continuous improvement.
- Increase information sharing between cross-functional teams.
- Goals and objectives are better alligned
- When looking at new ideas or plans for your organization catchball can provide a better understanding of the practical aspects of your plans and describe all the chances of success or failure.
- The most important benefit of catchball is that everybody will be comfortable with it.
- It promotes the lean culture of horizontal functions or department not vertical.
To learn more, we invite you to read our newsletter n°26: How to fail at one’s own Lean deployment .
TLDR
- Catchball is a method for instilling intention with precision through different people.
- It creates a bi-directional feedback loop, similar to the game of catch.
- Catchball is used in Policy Deployment (Hoshin Kanri) for defining and validating indicators.
- It promotes horizontal functions and departmental collaboration.
- Catchball increases information sharing, feedback, and ideas across the organization.
- It speeds up the process of continuous improvement and goal alignment.
FAQ
What is Catchball?
Catchball is a method for instilling intention with precision through different people, creating a bi-directional feedback loop similar to the game of catch.
What is the purpose of Catchball in Policy Deployment (Hoshin Kanri)?
Catchball is used to define and validate indicators together with the team and manager.
Why is Catchball important?
Catchball is suitable for complex processes, increases information sharing, and promotes continuous improvement and goal alignment.
What are the benefits of Catchball?
Catchball brings clarity in ownership and accountability, increases information sharing, and promotes a lean culture of horizontal functions.
How does Catchball work?
Catchball works as a technique where managers initiate ideas, and the team provides input and feedback until a general agreement is reached.
What is the importance of Catchball in a company?
Catchball is essential for communication, promoting a horizontal and collaborative work environment.
What is the outcome of using Catchball?
The outcome of using Catchball is increased information sharing, feedback, and ideas across the organization, and a better aligned goals and objectives.
Can Catchball be used for new ideas or plans?
Yes, Catchball can provide a better understanding of the practical aspects of new ideas or plans and describe all the chances of success or failure.
