Unveiling the Truth About Processes:

Debunking Myths and Misinformation

 

 

For two decades, I've been immersed in the realm of process development. Every job I've held since the turn of the millennium has been enriched by this experience. The fundamental lesson I've learned during this journey is that even small improvements in your processes can yield colossal benefits. Whether you work in education, hospitality, production, or the service industry, the tiniest adjustments—like refining your organization, enhancing your file structure, or optimizing your workflow—can make a significant difference in the success of your business.

 

However, there's a prevailing misunderstanding that I believe urgently needs correction. It's the idea that your business must conform to a rigid process, regardless of whether it suits your unique needs. This couldn't be farther from the truth. The reality is that your process should be custom-tailored to fit your business seamlessly. Yes, some adaptations might be necessary to ensure the process is robust and effective, but it should always align with your business's specific requirements.

 

A robust process serves as a safeguard, ensuring that all your assets, including your valued employees, are adequately protected. It also guarantees that your customers consistently receive top-quality products or services (and remember, service is a product too). The key point to remember is that if you're in business, you already have a process in place, whether you're aware of it or not.

 

Another prevalent misconception is that once a process is established, it must remain static, and any deviation is unacceptable. This notion is far from reality. Business is dynamic, and circumstances evolve. There will be instances where you'll need to think on your feet, adapt, and make decisions that don't neatly fit into your existing process. This adaptability is the essence of business.

 

However, having a well-defined process equips you with the tools to navigate these unexpected situations effectively. Even when you need to improvise, your decisions can still align with your organization's overarching vision and goals.

 

Some processes are inherently built around deviations. Take, for example, custom builders and suppliers. They operate within a consistent process of deviation, which we often refer to as customizations. In such cases, trying to force a mold onto these unique situations is futile. Instead, a broad and adaptable process ensures that materials are consistent and appropriate, assembly and disassembly meet external standards, health and safety protocols are followed, and communication flows smoothly between processes and departments. Tracking, traceability, and pricing details are all meticulously captured. Essentially, the process guarantees that the final product will meet the customer's specific requirements, and the customer verifies its accuracy. This creates a truly unique process for customizations.

 

In accredited systems, deviations are recorded as Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs), and there's no need to be apprehensive about them. These reports serve as a monitoring tool to track the frequency of discrepancies. Isolated incidents do not necessarily signal a need for process revision, but if discrepancies become more frequent, it might be time to reevaluate and refine the process. They also serve as a means to implement corrective and preventative actions.

 

In conclusion, the real problem is not the process itself; it's often how it's perceived. A well-structured process is designed to elevate your business, streamline operations, and ensure consistency and quality. It's a powerful tool, not a straitjacket. The right process has the potential to propel your business to new heights.

 

Stay tuned for our upcoming blog, "How Process Elevates Your Business," where we'll delve even deeper into the transformative power of processes.

 

Remember, we're here to guide you through the world of processes. If you have questions or need assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at details@exodiaconsulting.ca. Your success is our mission.