Organizations are made up of people, and as such reflect all the complexity and possibility of the human condition. Above all, the quick and effective implementation of strategic intent; the delivery of superior customer service; the viability of strategic alliances; and the productivity of teams at all levels are a product of the human relationships upon which they rely. Because of this, their organization's health and competence has become a central concern of their leaders.

Prompted by technology and by the many changes afoot in our society, new ideas are reshaping the organizational landscape. Reliable scouts, companions and mapmakers are called for.

CFAR has encountered, scouted and charted much of this new territory on behalf of some of the most respected client organizations in the world. For instance, in "New Boundaries of the 'Boundaryless' Company" (Harvard Business Review, May-June 1992) we pioneered the mapping of emerging models of authority and leadership — in all their complexity. Leadership transitions, "social architecture" and the unintended consequences of corporate culture change are all topics we have explored.

To support clients in moving swiftly yet surely in a sometimes treacherous arena, we pay close attention to the ties between strategy and organizational development. Specific activities may include: quantifying the contribution of investments in people and teams to the business's success; clarifying roles so that people understand their responsibilities in specific situations rather than being expected to adhere to a vague notion of "cooperation;" and using multiple targeted interventions to speed strategic change. We are particularly adept at helping groups collaborate across levels and functions in the service of organizational goals.

Drawing on deep roots in the behavioral sciences, we focus on both the rational and irrational aspects of organizational life. The latter are particularly important, since "irrational" passion and commitment in the face of large odds have been, throughout history, a major engine of innovation.