Rules to Principles

Complicated systems lend themselves to rules. Rules suggest actions need to be aligned in a single direction and synchronized. Rules are prescribed and tend to be rigid and focused on the outcome.

In a rules based approach actions and decisions are tightly controlled, with little room for individual autonomy. Individuals are expected to follow prescribed methods and directives, often leading to a rigid and deterministic environment where outcomes are prioritized over the process, and actions are expected to adhere to a single, pre-defined direction.

Complex systems are better served by guiding principles that are coherent, harmonized, adaptive and flexible.  Good guiding principles are more process focused and allow for multiple directions at the same time.

Principles are helpful in an environment where flexibility and adaptiveness are key, allowing for a harmonized but individualistic application of core values. This nurtures a system where processes are as important as outcomes and the flow of actions is multi-directional, enabling individuals to navigate complexity through informed judgment rather than rigid adherence to rules. This not only contrasts with the lack of autonomy in a rules-based approach but also emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals to navigate complex systems using guided discretion.