Hey folks,
I think all the conversation about this is really helpful, and it's been particularly useful thus far to hear from community members about what's confusing about the current and proposed structures. ("Not being confusing" isn't the primary motivation for a restructure, but it's obviously worth consideration.)
I do want to underline though, from Erik's original note, this: "To avoid fear and anxiety, and to make sure the plan makes sense, I want to start an open conversation now. If you think any of the below is a terrible idea, or have suggestions on how to improve the plan, I’d love to hear from you," and "I look forward to hearing your thoughts & discussing this further in coming weeks."
I kind of have the sense that people are considering this a done deal. I understand why people might assume that -- in an ordinary organization, a note like Erik's doesn't go out until things are pretty much locked down. But it's important that you realize that's not what's happening here: your input is wanted. Particularly for staff who'd be directly affected by these changes --- this is your window to shape what happens. If you think there are likely to be downstream effects of these proposed changes that are worth considering, or additional improvements that could be folded into this, or an aspect that warrants being revisited: this is your window. You can talk with Erik (by e-mail because he's travelling), me, Gayle, or whoever else seems relevant. That was the whole point of Erik's note :-)
So to be super-clear: None of this is a done deal at this moment. Lots of conversations are happening in various places, and it's all good. That's why Erik made the pre-announcement --- to create a window for discussion & iteration and further thinking :-)
Thanks, Sue
-- Sue Gardner Executive Director Wikimedia Foundation
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