Stovepiped is a word that describes a narrow perspective that is limited in scope. Its pronunciation is /ˈstoʊvpaɪpt/. The word is comprised of two parts: "stove" and "pip(ed)". "Stove" is pronounced /stoʊv/ and "pipe" is pronounced /paɪp/. When combined, the "e" in "pipe" is replaced with a "d" to create "piped". The "e" in "stove" is dropped when combined with "piped" to create "stovepiped". This word is commonly used in politics to describe an organization or system that is limited in its perspectives and does not consider a broader range of ideas.
Stovepiped is an adjective used to describe a situation or system that is organized or structured in a narrow and isolated manner, inhibiting the flow of information, communication, or collaboration. When a process or organization is stovepiped, it means that the different components or departments operate independently and do not effectively share or receive information with each other.
Originally derived from the concept of a stovepipe, which is a vertical metal tube that expels smoke from a stove, the term "stovepiped" metaphorically refers to a narrow and isolated system where information or resources are channeled directly up and down, without horizontal interactions.
In various contexts, such as government administration, technology, or business, a stovepiped approach can be detrimental. It hampers overall efficiency, coordination, and innovation. Stovepiped systems often suffer from duplicated efforts, limited communication between departments or teams, and difficulties in accessing information or resources that may be beneficial across multiple areas of an organization.
The term "stovepiped" is commonly used to highlight the need for integrated or interconnected systems that enable effective collaboration and information sharing between different components. In modern organizations, breaking down stovepipes and fostering cross-functional collaboration is often considered essential for enhancing productivity, problem-solving, and decision-making processes.
The word "stovepiped" is primarily derived from the term "stovepipe". Initially, a stovepipe referred to a pipe or duct that connected a stove to a chimney, used for directing the smoke or exhaust gases outside. The term "stovepipe" was later extended to become a metaphorical expression used in various domains.
In the context of information technology, particularly software development and information systems, "stovepiping" describes a situation where information or data is isolated within specific systems or departments, leading to limited or inefficient communication and lack of integration. This concept was inherited from the original meaning of stovepipe, where each individual stovepipe handles smoke or exhaust gases on its own, without proper interconnection.
The use of "stovepiped" as an adjective evolved as a way to describe systems or structures that are siloed, restricted, or lacking in interoperability.