The SCORE management philosophy is the framework for my approach to being a Manager of Technology. It represents five core principles of Strategy, Communication, Ownership, Relationships, and Environment. For each principle, I have defined a high-level set of beliefs and actions.

• Strategy: I adopt a strategic mindset to set clear goals, develop actionable plans, and align resources to achieve objectives. I provide a strategic roadmap for the team to use in decision-making and prioritization.
• Communication: I foster a culture that promotes transparent communication and timely constructive feedback. I build trust through active listening and constructive conflict resolution.
• Ownership: I cultivate a sense of ownership in my team by empowering employees to take responsibility for their work and outcomes. I encourage employees to own the product by delegating authority and promoting accountability.
• Relationships: I prioritize building positive and meaningful relationships with team members, stakeholders, and peers. I promote a collaborative workplace by engaging with team members and encouraging constructive conflict resolution.
• Environment: I create a well-balanced environment for individual and team growth, recognition, and well-being. I commit to growing team members' skills and recognizing the contributions of every team member.

Now, I will dive further into the philosophy and principles.

Strategy

Strategy is a plan, scheme, or course of action to achieve a particular objective. It is a mindset that focuses on being strategic regarding goals, activities, and future direction. Strategy is the compass that enables managers and teams to navigate the complex and ever-evolving business landscape.

• SMART Goals: Strategy is about setting clear goals and defining how to achieve them. Goals must be SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely).
• Planning & Resources: Effective management is about getting the right things done. A strategy helps provide an actionable plan to achieve the organization’s objectives. With a plan, resources such as team members or funding can be aligned with company goals.
• Vision & Roadmaps: A strategy defines the team vision using a roadmap. Roadmaps give team members and stakeholders visibility of future direction for the team. Roadmaps can also be used in decision-making and prioritization.

Strategy transforms abstract goals into actionable plans and equips teams with the tools to thrive. Strategy is the key to creating that future, ensuring that management is not just about reacting to the present but shaping a more prosperous tomorrow.

Communication

Communication is the transmission of information, knowledge, or ideas through speech, writing, media, or other means. It is the cornerstone of successful management. Effective communication is essential for achieving organizational goals, whether conveying a vision, delegating tasks, providing feedback, or resolving conflicts.

• Transparent Communication: Managers who take the time to listen to their team members and engage in meaningful conversations build rapport and understanding. We should be active listeners when talking to team members to build trust.
• Constructive Feedback: Giving constructive feedback is essential to the manager-employee relationship. Timely and constructive feedback and communication creates a positive environment and builds trust with the team.
• Conflict Resolution: Conflicts are inevitable, but communication within a team can make resolving these conflicts more manageable. When individuals have a foundation of trust and open communication, they resolve conflicts constructively.

Communication is essential for a productive work environment when it is transparent, constructive, and resolving conflicts.

Ownership

Ownership is the state of owning a tangible or intangible asset. It embodies a sense of responsibility and accountability that can transform individuals and teams. Teams should be owners and not renters of their products and domains. Building a sense of ownership includes engaging team members and encouraging knowledge-sharing.

• Responsibility & Accountability: Ownership in management instills a profound sense of responsibility in individuals and teams. When team members feel they have a stake in the outcomes of their work, they are more inclined to take ownership of their tasks.
• Team Engagement: Team members who own their domain are more engaged with their work. When they feel ownership and responsibility, they are more motivated and satisfied in their roles.
• Knowledge Sharing: Domain owners are often the subject matter experts on related topics. Encouraging knowledge sharing inside and outside a team will build strong ownership by the team members.

Ownership fosters responsibility and accountability among individuals and teams. By prioritizing ownership, managers create an environment that empowers team members to deliver a high-quality product.

Relationships

Relationships are ways in which two things are connected. This connection strengthens with trust, honesty, and transparency. Management should cultivate solid and meaningful relationships by engaging with team members and encouraging collaboration where possible.

• Trust: Trust is essential to any successful relationship. Trust fosters open communication and transparency for effective teamwork and problem-solving.
• Honesty: Team members and managers are expected to be honest with each other. Being honest builds strong relationships, encouraging collaborative problem-solving.
• Collaboration: Team members involved in collaborative efforts tend to be more engaged. When they feel part of a team working toward a common goal, they are more motivated and satisfied in their roles.

Building relationships is a strategic asset that is the foundation of trust, honesty, and collaboration.

Environment

An environment is the physical surroundings or conditions in which a person lives or develops. The workplace environment is both the physical, mental, and emotional space management provides. We must create a work environment that empowers teams to thrive, grow, and contribute their best.

• Professional Growth & Skills: A positive work environment supports personal growth and development. Effective management includes providing opportunities for skill enhancement, training, and career advancement.
• Work-Life Balance: Effective management philosophy recognizes the importance of work-life balance. It encourages policies and practices that enable team members to manage their workloads while maintaining personal well-being.
• Team Recognition: Managers must have a framework for recognizing team member contributions. Team recognition, both public and private, is essential for boosting team morale.

Management must create a work environment where team members can thrive and contribute their best.