To achieve anything requires organization, and especially so in politics — which involves coordinating individual efforts toward shared priorities. Organization is at the core of positive politics.
For every minute spent organizing, an hour is earned. — Ben Franklin
Positive politics expects that we organize for both order and justice, but the form of organization will vary with the size and mission of the group. The larger the group the more hierarchical and regularized your organization needs to be. Even with smaller groups, organization is essential to make the best use of time, talent, and treasure. Both staff and volunteers must understand their role and responsibilities and be kept alert to changing circumstances. The more democratic the organizational structure, the better.
Often it seems that a hierarchical, dictatorial organization would be so much easier and faster. But all leaders are fallible — a leader is not a god and ought not pretend to be one. While dictatorial leadership can be successful in the short term, it will inevitably lead to discontent and rebellion. On the other hand an organization that is too flat, where too many voices are heard and decisions are delayed, can lead to chaos where too many cooks spoil the broth.
Building effective teams is the heart of the work of organization. The organizational structure has to reflect the realities of individual capabilities and group priorities. Roles need to be defined. Participants need to understand their role and responsibilities.
Whether you're playing defense on a hockey team or going door-to-door for a political candidate, the organization is responsible for training you for your role. And you are responsible to either carry out your responsibilities or to help restructure the role so that the mission can succeed. Forming an organization — or finding one committed to your priorities — multiplies your chances of success when the group is well organized.
Positive politics may take longer — but we achieve more and have more fun doing it.