silo
Say it: SY-loh /ˈsaɪloʊ/ · noun
What “silo” means
A team that keeps information to itself.
More precisely: A team or department that works in isolation and doesn't share information.
When to use it
In workplace discussions, usually critically, when departments work separately and fail to share information with one another.
Memory trick
Picture each department sealed inside its own separate grain tower.
It can also mean
It also means a large container or tower used to store grain.
Similar words
isolated unit, enclave, compartment
Where it comes from
Originally a tower or pit for storing grain.
Quick check
The design team keeps customer research to itself, so sales never hears what buyers need. Design has become…
a network or a silo?
Show the answer
a silo
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