Implementation: What we do

The third step in the E.S.I.P. process is Implementation – also known as ‘what you do on a daily basis’. Ask yourself these two questions:

o   Is everything you do documented, or is it in someone’s head?

o   When you started your business, did you document everything you did? 

Business systems and processes

Most small business owners start their business on their own, or with very few staff. This often leads to the belief that it’s not necessary to document what is done on a daily basis. Indeed, it can work when one person knows what they are doing and just ‘gets it done’  – but only for a short period of time and only if you’re happy to remain a one-man-band.

The problem with this is that all relevant information, systems and processes ‘are in someone’s head’, which is not sustainable in the long term. If you want to grow and scale your business, then you need to document all your processes.

The earlier you get the information onto paper (or laptop), the better it is now and down the track. Every time you complete a daily task, write down what it was and what it entailed. This creates the beginnings of a system designed for the future growth and development of your business.

Designing and implementing new systems

Questions to ask yourself and your team:

• What actually happens?
• When does it happen?
• How often does it happen?
• Who performs the task?
• How do they demonstrate that they have completed the task?
• What is the evidence that the task has been completed?
• Who measures that it has been completed?
• How do they measure it?
• How often does it get measured?
• How do we use these systems?
• How are these systems taught and how is the success of the education assessed? 
• How do we ensure feedback to obtain continuous improvement?  

Then, once this is clear and documented, you’re ready to create the system and implement the process.

What do we want to achieve from this system?

Before designing any system, it’s important to ask yourself this one simple question. Knowing this will help streamline the processes and ensure you are on the right track to get the results you require and keep your business running smoothly.

The power of teamwork and implementation

A high-performing team will have an enormous impact on the systems of your business. As such, they should be involved in developing, designing and implementing the systems. Giving people responsibility for their own area of expertise, and allowing them to contribute to the systems within their area, creates a strong and positive culture which empowers your staff and stimulates personal growth.

Listening to and working with your staff on a regular basis will provide you and your team with many solutions to streamline your efficiencies. 

It’s time to identify what you do and how you do it. Is there a better way? Let us know here or contact us for more information.