by Rick Baker
On Dec 6, 2012
Work Process is made up of 2 things:
- links of tasks done by people
- links of tasks done by technology, designed by people
The Purpose of Work Process: to systematize and automate work tasks.
Isn't that a straightforward and simple enough concept?
Yes.
Work Process is straightforward and simple when you place it in writing.
But not always...
Work Process often becomes confused and complicated when we put it into action.
When we put Work Process into action we find conflicting views and approaches to things like:
- Who should do those tasks and why? Why me? and What's in it for me?
- How do we improve that process? Why should we improve that process?
- We need to do more of that process! You need to do more of that process!
How do we sort out those conflicts?
There are 7 critical steps:
- Ensure your work process is understood: ensure all work tasks are clear and ensure the linkage of the work tasks [the work flow] is clear.
- Ensure your work process actually works: that is, ensure the linkage of tasks of work process achieves the results you desire. Test cause and effect on an ongoing basis.
- Capture your work process in writing: work-flow picture & descriptions, role descriptions, etc.
- Match your peoples' individual/personal strengths with their roles.
- Make a habit of asking your people questions about process and how they feel while doing their work-process tasks.
- Listen.
- Make the necessary adjustments to ensure your work process and your people are in synch.