Do you really understand your processes?
Few organizations have committed the time and resources necessary to understand and document their processes. My experience is that everyone in an organization understands their processes, but few realize that their understanding is different, sometimes VERY different, from others in the same organization. Processes (and sometimes results) vary according to individual differences. A disciplined approach to process documentation is the foundation of process redesign (reengineering) and continuous improvement.
Why document and redesign your processes?
Process reengineering on a grand scale has produced many grand failures. This has made some organizations reluctant to commit resources to reengineering their processes. Unfortunately these organizations lose the substantial benefits that a practical approach to process documentation and design can yield. In the unending quest for efficiency and cost reduction, no tool is more powerful than simple process mapping. The visualization of work brings critical new insights to process performers. It fosters a common understanding and makes obvious ways the process can be improved.
Managing the process improvement process
As with any change effort, process redesign requires a commitment of top management and a clear path. These steps have consistently shown to produce significant results:
- Develop a senior management steering committee that includes relevant process owners and performers.
- Identify critical strategic processes for redesign.
- Charter process improvement teams.
- Document the as-is process.
- Define key metrics.
- Measure the current process.
- Identify opportunities for improvement.
- Define and map the to-be process.
- Implement the new process.
- Measure and refine the new process.
How I can help
As with all my work, I will collaborate with your organization to document and redesign processes that meet your unique business objectives. My job is to define and manage the design process and create technical process documentation. My emphasis is on creating opportunities for the broadest practical level of participation and the well managed use of time.
I can help you and your organization:
- Simplify work flows
- Eliminate unnecessary steps in your processes
- Improve cross-functional communication and performance
- Eliminate non-value-added costs
- Reduce costly variances in process activities and results
- Form a solid basis for continuous improvement
- Define metrics and develop process controls
To learn more about process design and how I can help, please contact me.
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