Why Companies Struggle with Process

And how to go from zero to Followed By All in no time.

We All Know Process Matters

• Are you worried your people aren’t doing things the “right” way?
• Do you struggle with consistency in your business?
• Or do you just feel like things are chaotic?

Many trace these issues to a lack of clarity about their processes or how they get things done.

If your business runs on EOS®, then you know the Process Component™ is one of the Six Key Components™ of running a healthy business. But did you know that process is also one of the components that companies struggle with the most?

Many businesses know that process is the key to organizing their business, but can’t find a way to make processes happen.

The Struggle Is Real

Why do companies struggle with the Process Component?

Lisa González, co-author of the book Process!, says that process is a mind block. Teams and leaders have mindset blocks like:

• “Process is not in my nature.”
• “Process destroys freedom.”
• “Process takes too much time.”

If you delve into these preconceived notions about process, you can see how they fall short of the truth.

Process is actually in all of our natures. For example, when did you last forget to brush your teeth or drive to work?

Seven Ways to Document Your Processes in No Time

You know that empowering your team will create more freedom for your business to scale. Processes only make sense when they’re kept up to date and followed by everyone in your company.

But this takes a lot of time. Or does it?

We know it can seem overwhelming, but implementing these quick fixes will see you moving from zero process to Followed By All!

1. Prioritize

List the handful of core processes that make your business successful. Remember, you only need to document the 20% of processes that get you 80% of the desired results. Not all processes are equally important. Focus your documentation efforts on your critical core processes first. Start with those that have the most significant impact on your business operations.

2. Simplify and Standardize

Streamline your processes whenever possible. The simpler the process, the easier it is to document – and the more time effective! Look for opportunities to eliminate unnecessary steps and complexity. Use video and media to make documentation engaging so your teams actually want to read it.

3. Use Templates

Create standardized templates for documenting processes so you don’t have to reinvent the wheel every time. These templates can include headings for key information like process steps, responsibilities, and dependencies. Using templates saves time and ensures consistency.

4. Leverage Technology

Now that you have identified your core processes in the form of a short list, think about HOW you want to document them. Basically, you have two options: pen/paper or digital. In today’s interconnected world, pen and paper still are essential for cards to your loved ones. But for documentation? Digital is where it’s at.

Various software tools and platforms are designed for process documentation and management. These tools can automate some aspects of documentation, making it more efficient, including using AI to document from scratch!

5. Delegate

Assign the task of process documentation to team members who are directly involved in the process. They have the most intimate knowledge and can document it more efficiently. Doing so empowers them to lead the process in their area of expertise.

Encourage a culture of continuous improvement within your organization. Review and update processes to make them more efficient, and document these improvements promptly.

6. Outsource

If you lack the time or expertise to document processes, consider outsourcing this task to professionals specializing in process documentation and optimization.

7. Automate Processes

Whenever possible, automate repetitive tasks and processes. Automated systems often come with built-in documentation, reducing the need for manual documentation. Automation will save you a bunch of time and a lot of frustration.

Bottom line? Mastering processes in your business can be surprisingly straightforward and need not consume excessive time.

By adopting a systematic approach, simplifying complex steps, and leveraging user-friendly tools and resources, you can efficiently document your processes and get your team aligned.

Faster than ever.

Sign up for this year’s Strong in Six Process Week presentation, How to Go from Zero Processes to FBA in Just 2 Weeks!