Enabling Functions

Part of

Work System Types

Characteristics

Provision of internal services
Mostly organized as central departments
Not directly involved in value creation
High impact on delivery capability

Examples

HR for hiring
Controlling for budgeting
Legal for contract review

Description

Enabling Functions provide internal services and governance that enhance the organization’s ability to deliver value. They create the organizational context that allows delivery systems to operate effectively, defining and maintaining essential policies, practices, and resources that safeguard and strengthen overall capability.

Structural and Functional Role

Typically organized as stable units responsible for cross-organizational processes, frameworks, and expertise. Their focus lies in enablement, compliance, and optimization rather than direct delivery.

Distinguishing Features

Internal service orientation
Influence on capability and compliance
Often centralized but can be federated for agility
Focus on governance and support

Relationships to Other System Types

Serve all other system types through policies and shared services
Depend on Supporting systems for operational infrastructure
Occasionally form Pop-Up initiatives for transformation or process redesign

Lifecycle or Stability

Highly stable; foundational to organizational continuity.