shamrock organization

Organizational structure where a core of essential executives and workers are supported by outside contractors and part-time help. The term was invented by Irish academic and management guru Charles Handy. Shamrock organizations have an organizational structure with three distinct parts. The first part, or leaf, represents the core staff of the organization. They are likely to be highly trained professionals who form the senior management. The second leaf consists of the contractual fringe and may include individuals who once worked for the organization but now supply services to it. These individuals operate within broad guidelines set down by the organization but have a high degree of flexibility and discretionary powers. The third leaf describes the flexible work force. These workers are sufficiently close enough to the organization to feel a degree of commitment to it, ensuring they maintain a high standard of work.