Dilbert Principle
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30
CORE DEFINITION
"The most competent employees are kept in actual work positions, while the least competent are promoted to management, so that they cause the least damage."
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
A satirical view of organizational reality. Although exaggerated, it reflects the adverse selection that promotion systems may produce.
Anchor fast decisions
Scott Adams satirically points out that companies often promote the most difficult and least competent people to management, moving them away from the front lines to reduce disruption.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/1Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dilbert_principleverified
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