Management By Walking Around (MBWA)
Management by Walking Around (MBWA) is a technique used by managers who are proactive listeners. These managers use this style to gather as much information as possible so that a problematic situation does not turn into a bigger problem. Listening carefully to employee’s suggestions and concerns will help stop potential crises. This type of management benefits managers by providing real time information about processes that is often left out of formal communication channels.
By walking around, management can also gauge the level of morale in the organisation and can offer help if there is trouble.
A negative of MBWA is that the manager loses authority as the employees feel that they can run the business.
An appropriate use of this management technique will provide significant benefits to an organisation.