Running or managing a business can often feel like the process of herding cats and we all know that is a virtual impossibility. The multi-stranded awareness and decision making that is needed can be managed when things are running smoothly, however, when problems arise things can rapidly get out of hand. There are many things you can do to ensure your business runs smoothly even in times of economic or competition based pressure. Reviewing your economy and efficiency before the pressure comes to bear can save you a great deal of headache later.
Developing a keen sense of efficiency is your first defense against outside pressures. When your business is running at maximum efficiency, your response times, ability to take on extra work, and flexibility of purpose will allow for a more dynamic business model. There will be the assurance that your business is more capable of adapting to market pressures. Efficiency does not simply mean more productiveness, but is also includes adaptability and resourcefulness that can accommodate the changing business landscape. You can build these efficiencies into your business by identifying the core responsibilities and issues that each employee has and then applying the most effective methods of managing those workloads. Also examine the daily 'work paths' to identify areas that waste time or resources. You might find that redistributing tasks is not only desirable but necessary. You may find that re-positioning critical office resources will save time and effort.
Economy is, specifically, the careful use of material resources, but in today's business world this can also mean the intellectual resources of your staff. Many people think that economy simply means less as in using less or paying less. True economy is far more complicated because it means using or paying the right amount in the right situation. It involves a constant judgment and awareness. Managing both your physical or material resources and your intellectual resources well, will reap immediate rewards for your business. Employees will feel empowered and will surprise you with their responsiveness and ingenuity. This is a plus as a high morale reduces the cost of replacing and re-training staff. Savings in one area can be applied to business development in another and your business can grow in efficiency and scope.
If you want to stop herding cats when the pressure is on takes steps now to improve the efficiency and economy of your business. Use both your physical and intellectual resources well. Find the areas where there is waste - wasted supplies, wasted time, wasted steps, and eliminate them. Focusing on these areas will show immediate results.
Tony Jacowski is a quality analyst for The MBA Journal. Aveta Solutions - Six Sigma Online ( http://www.sixsigmaonline.org ) offers online six sigma training and certification classes for lean six sigma, black belts, green belts, and yellow belts.
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