Following is an example of this in action...
A new warehouse management process is ready for the final stages of testing ahead of a pan-European rollout. Praise has been flowing; for the effort to date and as encouragement towards the finish line. Now however, there's a major problem. The scanners, purchased months ago, are not compatible with the solution. Testing has stopped.
Up rises Ego, asking questions and gathering information. The result?
1st Result:
Responses are heard and promptly ignored; Lip-service.
2nd Result:
In parallel, instructions are issued on what to do.
3rd Result:
Escalation happens; unqualified problem with unrealistic resolution demands.
Outcome: Actions are perceived as self-preservation. People are confused, frustrated, and demotivated. Available time is wasted.