Systems count in small business

We’ve heard the phrase before: ‘put systems in your business’. McDonald’s is a successful example of this and there are a lot of good books on the subject, including The E-Myth by Michael Gerber.

In practice, this can be hard to achieve, as people can have a tendency to make shortcuts and override systems due to wanting to have freedom. This occurs at all levels and even at Government level.

We can suggest ways to develop and keep systems:

• Invest in effective and reliable software that is tailored to your industry.
• Invest in good staff who can follow systems. Consider both their technical skills and level of expertise.
• Train and encourage staff to use systems, especially those that are showing resistance. Staff will see the benefits of systems after a while and it keeps business profitable.

Look for leadership in staff who set a good example and follow it. Support management and systems and allow staff to have ideas within the system framework.

Having good simple systems is the best way to get the most from people.

Date published 27 Jul 2017

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