Stack Ranking Framework
Social Darwinist approach to management
The Stack Ranking Framework is a social Darwinist approach to management, where employees are ranked and compared to one another, and the lowest-performing employees are eliminated. This framework is based on the idea that competition and individualism are essential for motivation and productivity.
- Competition and individualism are essential for motivation and productivity
- The strongest employees will rise to the top, while the weakest will be eliminated
- Employees must be constantly evaluated and ranked in order to motivate them
- Implement a ranking systemImplement a system where employees are ranked and compared to one another, based on their performance and productivity.Pro tipUse data and metrics to support the ranking systemWarningBe cautious of biases and subjective evaluations
- Eliminate low-performing employeesEliminate the lowest-performing employees, in order to make room for more talented and motivated employees.Pro tipProvide support and resources for employees who are strugglingWarningBe cautious of the negative effects on employee morale and trust
The Brazilian fish fishing villages were studied as an example of how environments can foster either cynicism or trust and cooperation. The villages that practiced stack ranking were found to have higher levels of cynicism and lower levels of trust and cooperation.
The Stack Ranking Framework was popularized in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, particularly in the tech industry. However, it has been widely criticized for its negative effects on employee morale, trust, and cooperation.