Discussion from Business Training’s LinkedIn Group
Last week I set up a group on LinkedIn for Business Training students and potential students so we could all discuss work issues and help each other.
Joseph Ackoki, from Kenya, put forward the following question:
Why is it difficult for some organisations to implement their own systems?
Joseph is particularly interested in looking at this problem from a Senior Management perspective.
Here are my thoughts. To set up a system successfully there are at least four stages.
1. Before any system can be set up a clear understanding of what you want it to do is essential. This will help you to establish the KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), which will show you if your system is working and doing the job you designed it to achieve.
2. Next you need to plan the system in detail including what it will do, how the aims will be achieved, who will be involved in implementing and managing a system, who will run the system and so on.
3. Once you have your plan you need to set it up and then make sure it is monitored carefully to ensure it is being implemented correctly and is running smoothly. You KPIs will help with this.
4. The next stage is to tweek the system if it needs it and then constant monitoring to make sure it continues to work.
Clear Communication is Essential
It is essential to make sure everyone knows what they need to do and who is responsible for what. Often it is poor communication that is responsible for things going wrong in business.
Forming a Habit
Apparently it takes about three months for people to form a habit. This would explain why in business, and in life, it can be difficult to implement new systems or change old ways.
Management is Time Consuming
Something I’ve been surprised at, in my career, is how much time managing other people takes. Sometimes it feels like a never ending and thankless job and other times it can be very rewarding – especially when you see an employee grow in character and confidence.
If you want to add to this discussion please join us on LinkedIn or leave a comment below.
