Accountability Gaps

We define an Accountability Gap as a gap in performance that directly affects an organization’s ability to achieve a Key Result. It is the difference between what is actually occurring and what you want to occur. We call it an Accountability Gap to emphasize the need to take accountability to close the gap before achievement of a Key Result is jeopardized. Whenever you identify an Accountability Gap, STOP. That’s right, STOP and apply the Steps To Accountability—See It, Own It, Solve It, Do It—to begin closing the gap. Consider the following example.

A large fast food chain recently identified an Accountability Gap relative to results in one of its geographical regions. Leaders of the region STOPPED and applied the Steps To Accountability to See It, Own It, Solve It, Do It—we refer to this as the application of the SOSD Accountability Tool. New staffing configurations, briefing huddles prior to peak demand periods, and a compelling mantra to “Own the Gap” were quickly implemented to close the gap. Within weeks, the region’s results were on the rise. Within months, the gap had been closed. This sort of focus on Accountability Gaps, quickly and effectively applied, can work wonders in an organization. All you need to do is STOP and follow four easy steps: (1) identify the Accountability Gap, (2) apply the Steps To Accountability, (3) make your Accountability Plan, and (4) report your Accountability Plan.

To learn more about how to identify and close Accountability Gaps on your team or in your organization by applying the Steps To Accountability, we invite you to join our Accountability Community at www.partnersinleadership.com, where you can review the stories and case studies of actual people and organizations.

Accountability Gap, Steps To Accountability, See It, Own It, Solve It, Do It, SOSD, and Accountability Community are all registered trademarks of Partners In Leadership. All other trademarks and registered trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners.