What principle aims to avoid micromanagement by allowing resources enough work to occupy their time?

The 8/80 rule is based on the principle of giving team members enough work to keep them engaged without feeling overwhelmed or stifled by micromanagement. This principle suggests that tasks should be structured such that individuals can effectively manage their time and deliver results without excessive oversight. By allowing team members to focus on larger tasks—typically estimated at around 8 hours of work that can be tracked over a span of 80 hours—project managers can foster a level of autonomy that encourages accountability and ownership of their work.

This approach promotes an environment where team members feel trusted to manage their responsibilities, leading to increased motivation and productivity. It actively counteracts micromanagement by offering enough scope for individuals to make decisions and exercise their judgement, thereby enabling a healthier and more effective team dynamic.