What are the implications of spending a significant portion of working lives on internal compliance activities?

A company can maintain functionality during power outages or other disruptions by having a robust disaster recovery and business continuity plan in place. This includes having backup power sources like generators or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems, data backup and recovery solutions, and alternative work arrangements for employees. It's also important to regularly test these systems and plans to ensure they work effectively when needed.

Relying too heavily on traditional systems and structures can lead to several potential drawbacks. First, it can result in a stifling bureaucracy, where outdated structures and policies no longer serve the organization effectively. This is often referred to as organizational debt. Second, the most widely used systems are not always the best quality. For instance, traditional traffic systems may not be as safe or efficient as alternatives like roundabouts. Lastly, firms that try to adopt new methodologies like Agile without understanding the theory behind them may not see the desired benefits. Instead, they may end up simply adding another layer of bureaucracy.

The content does not provide specific examples of companies that have successfully transitioned to an agile mindset. However, many companies across various industries have made this transition. For instance, Spotify is often cited for its agile practices, particularly its use of squads, tribes, chapters, and guilds. ING Bank also underwent a significant agile transformation, moving from a traditional banking structure to a more customer-centric, agile approach. Please note that the success of an agile transition can vary and depends on many factors, including the company's culture, leadership, and the specific practices implemented.