Every business owner has experienced the need to implement a new system or process in their business. Whether it's a shift in accounting practices or the implementation of business systems like Workbench International, they will eventually have to address their unique situation and find the tools that best suit their needs.
The idea of adopting a new system often sounds easy enough on paper, but the reality is usually more difficult. More than often, business owners we deal with find that they are working with limited resources and limited time to get things done. So, how can they then manage such projects more effectively with fewer resources and all of the risks and constraints? The good news is that they have an advantage over larger organizations: agility.
It can take on average more than 2 months before a new behaviour becomes automatic - 66 days to be exact. Our consultants with be with you every step of the way and will always provide ongoing support to your staff to ensure the change becomes a habit.
Constraints must be dealt with. Projects are constructed around four parameters: the project's goals, the time frame, the amount of effort needed, and the quality of the final product. Companies can confront these limitations if they can't be overcome. Constraints should be viewed as a wish list, not a limitation. If businesses can afford to achieve it, they will; otherwise, as close as possible must also suffice. The four elements listed above can be tweaked to come up with satisfying variations of the project. A variety of options are available, p.e. postponing the go-live date, re-evaluating the scope of the project, or implementing a staged approach. The good news is that implementing one change at a time allows employees to become accustomed to the new system or process before moving on to another update, which leads me to the next suggestion:
Companies must take advantage of every opportunity to speed up the process instead of dragging it out any longer than necessary. If a project has a shorter duration, the team will spend less time on project duties. In addition, organisations with a small team should stick to tested processes and avoid getting overly excited about implementing new features straight away. Trial and error is not an option for them... and last but not least,
Motivate, inform, and communicate. Company leaders are the most effective tool they have at their disposal. Their ability to motivate and inspire their team can be the difference between success and utter failure. "Here's the project, I don't know anything about it, but it has to be done by tomorrow." - The worst inspirational speech one can give to a team. Project leaders need to take the time to talk to team members about how their efforts will make a difference, how their role impacts others on the team, and how their work will impact clients. They don't have to oversell it; they just have to communicate it honestly and with enthusiasm. Be honest when times are tough and celebrate when things go well.
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