1.7 The Open Door & Resolution Policy

Hierarchical structures, while necessary for operational execution, can inadvertently impede the flow of critical risk information. To prevent signal loss and maintain organizational integrity, the company maintains a non-blocking communication architecture. This policy grants every individual the explicit authority to bypass the standard chain of command when reporting lines fail to address systemic risks, ethical breaches, or personnel grievances.

1.7.1 Direct Access Authority

The "Open Door" is defined as an unrestricted interface between any employee and the executive function. Access to leadership is not a privilege; it is an operational control mechanism designed to identify and rectify management failures before they impact the product or the team.

The Non-Retaliation Protocol

The integrity of this system relies on immunity. Retaliation by a direct supervisor against personnel exercising the Open Door protocol — whether through schedule manipulation, task assignment bias, or hostility — is classified as a Severity 1 Management Defect. Proven retaliation constitutes grounds for immediate termination of the supervisor.

1.7.2 The Resolution Algorithm (Escalation Path)

To ensure efficient processing of conflicts, resolution must follow a defined escalation topology. Issues should be resolved at the lowest possible level to preserve leadership bandwidth for strategic exceptions.

Level 1: Local Resolution (Direct 1:1)

The initiator must first attempt to resolve the issue directly with the counterparty or the immediate process owner.

• Requirement: Clear, data-driven communication of the grievance or process gap.
• Goal: Immediate correction without administrative overhead.

Level 2: Supervisory Mediation

If direct interface fails or if the counterparty is uncooperative, the immediate supervisor acts as the primary mediation node.

• Requirement: The supervisor must document the dispute and the proposed resolution.
• Goal: Alignment with standard operating procedures and cultural norms.

Level 3: Executive Escalation (The Open Door)

If the supervisor is the source of the conflict, or if they fail to resolve a Level 2 issue within a reasonable timeframe, the Open Door Protocol activates.

• Routing: The issue is routed directly to People Operations or Executive Leadership.
• Requirement: Submission of prior resolution attempts (if safe to do so) and current status.
• Mandate: Leadership is obligated to investigate and provide a definitive disposition.

Final Checklist

Resolution Domain	Operational Mandate
Access Rights	Access to leadership is unrestricted; permission from a direct manager is not required.
Retaliation	Punitive action against employees using this policy is a terminable offense.
Escalation Order	Issues must be addressed at Level 1 (Direct) and Level 2 (Manager) before Level 3 (Executive), unless the manager is the issue.
Resolution Duty	Leadership must investigate and close all Open Door escalations with a documented outcome.