What it actually means
Everyone said 'fine' in the meeting. I am calling that consent.
Surface meaning: Shared understanding and agreement among stakeholders on a direction.
If someone just said “Alignment” in a meeting, here is what they probably meant, what to do about it, and how to keep your sanity.
In the wild
Director: We have alignment on the roadmap.
(Three of seven attendees were on mute.)
How to respond
After the meeting, send: 'Quick note: I heard us align on A, B, C. Anyone read this differently?' The silent disagreement now has 24 hours to surface.
Origin
Geometry and physics, applied to organizations sometime in the 1990s. The metaphor flatters more than it describes.
FAQ
What does "Alignment" actually mean?
Everyone said 'fine' in the meeting. I am calling that consent.
Where did the phrase "Alignment" come from?
Geometry and physics, applied to organizations sometime in the 1990s. The metaphor flatters more than it describes.
How should I respond when someone says "Alignment"?
After the meeting, send: 'Quick note: I heard us align on A, B, C. Anyone read this differently?' The silent disagreement now has 24 hours to surface.
Related corporate vocabulary
This was, of course, a meeting that should have been an email.
Run the fake meeting simulator. Generate a bingo card. Be busy without being there.
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