> The shock absorber simply acts as a router Force absorption requires space and resources to manoeuvre, a condition of austerity is a lack of space and resour

> The shock absorber simply acts as a router Force absorption requires space and resources to manoeuvre, a condition of austerity is a lack of space and resources, so I agree to that extent with your comment. The author talks about "leaders" though - leadership (giving direction, inspiration, solving big problems) is complementary to management (administration, communication, task allocation). Especially in tough times it's leaders who make the difference. The author says that "shock absorbers push back in both directions" - a leader will find new opportunities of optimising work by involving both the team and the organisation.