Create Processes
Those of you that are not “detailed” people may have just groaned at the thought of writing out processes, but they are extremely important if a business is going to succeed long term. A process helps create an environment where successful steps are repeatable. “Successful” is the key word here because a broken process that is being repeated is worse than no process at all.
Key points regarding setting up processes and their value:
- Creating standard processes ensures that everyone knows their role and where it fits in regards to the other team members.
- Be sure to engage the people closest to the issue in designing the processes. This engagement creates buy-in, and more importantly, it helps you get the process right the first time.
- When possible, assign an owner to the process. It is best to find someone that has a passion for the area that the process impacts.
- Set up regular, scheduled review times. This will ensure that the process is not broken or producing a less-than-desired outcome.
- Make the outcome measurable. Not all processes can be designed with a measurable outcome, but this should always be considered.
- Set up measurements when possible but do not overmeasure. There is a fine line between measuring the right things and over measuring.
- Standard processes are important for succession planning. If a leader can suppress the ego, then the first place to start when taking over a new role is to step into (and use) the current processes.
- At least once a year, get a new team together to evaluate the steps in the process. Things are changing rapidly in today’s business world. A fresh set of eyes will be important to keep things on track. And last but not least...
- Make certain that all processes have the impact on the customer in mind. They pay the bills and should always stay in the forefront.
Setting processes for as many things as possible can be time-consuming, but will be well worth it.
