Leading Geeks: How to Manage and Lead People Who Deliver Technology

Chapter 9. Managing Ambiguity

The fourth and perhaps most important responsibility of a geek leader is to manage ambiguity. In this most subtle of the responsibilities, a geek leader manages ambiguity at three levels simultaneously, juggling issues of structure, environment, and task.

Geek leaders themselves need a high tolerance for ambiguity and an ability to be productive in the absence of clarity. They need to maintain composure and help others to do so in situations clouded by confusion. The ability to help an entire group make sense of its environment and activities lies at the very core of a leader's role.

What Is Ambiguity?

Ambiguity is the ...