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January 19, 2007
Ockham's razor
We had a second meeting of the group who met first at the Smith Institute.
I shall try and explain and describe the discussion properly but one recurring theme of both meetings is that running the whole library service is too complicated. The result is that nothing is achieved.
One wise delegate, after the meeting, told me to look up the meaning of Ockham's razor as a possible route forward for library policy. Here is what he meant. I agree with him and it will be fun to explore the possibility for a radical transformation of how things work.
One thing is certain-- we cannot leave things as they are - not for another 6 months.
Posted by Tim Coates at January 19, 2007 10:30 PM
Comments
But can Ockham's Razor slice through the Gordian Knot? Will the guardians and benefactors of the knot even allow us to attempt it? Hell, will there be anyone left to hold the damned blade?
I agree with your assessment, but I have to say my optimism is being severely eroded. Trying to change the way local authorities do things is like trying to U-turn an oil tanker.
Posted by: Armchair Anarchist at January 21, 2007 11:09 PM
Why do local authorities have such a poor reputation for management both with their own staff, with their suppliers and with the public?
What does the Audit Commission do? And the Department of Local Government? And the chief executives of these councils- why do they have such a poor reputation?
It doesn't have to be like that- in fact it should not be.
Posted by: Tim at January 22, 2007 8:35 AM