Documenting processes may seem taxing and time-consuming, but it is invaluable for an efficient business. When there is one clear method for completing tasks within your organization, this develops into predefined standards, which results in higher quality output.
What is Process Documentation?
Process documentation is the careful record of how tasks are carried out within an organization. They are a set of documents outlining, in step-by-step processes, how each task is executed, and this is established from prior experience or research. It can be for the simplest to the most complex tasks. It is advised to document even the most basic tasks as the human element has to be considered, with each individual having their own set of ideas as to the best way things work. It results in the standardization of processes.
Examples of Process Documents include:
Company Policies
Procedures, i.e., How to answer the phone/how to pitch to the client
Brand guideline
Process Standardization
If processes are standardized, it helps reduce human error and the chaos resulting from not having processes documented. Standardization gives clarity to all involved, and they can then understand expectations. This, in turn, leads to improved productivity. Guess-work is eliminated, and morale improves, as there is a sense of achievement in mastering the process. Read more here: https://www.process.st/process-standardization/
The value of Consistency and Structure
If a process is defined according to a high standard and everyone in the organization follows that high standard, this leads to higher quality output. The most important way this improves quality is by omitting crucial parts, i.e., saying the company name first when answering the phone. Still, in approach, i.e., a person may think it's best to make clients stand outside in a line while waiting for their appointment instead of offering them coffee and a seat. Everyone may have their own different opinions and personalities. Some ideas may work, some not - are you willing to take that risk with your business and clients?
Don't Waste Time When Onboarding
One of the major advantages to having all your processes documented is that when a new employee joins the organization, time and effort spent training them is halved. A good copy of all the process documents and their trainer to answer any questions is all you need - onboarding simplified!
Create a library of company knowledge
Think of it as your own archives! Everything you do, the way you want it done - recorded. The intelligence bank of your organization will lead to quality improvements and the success of your organization for years to come.
Growth and Process Documentation
If you don't have your processes documented, your business growth will be negatively affected. When opportunity comes knocking, you have to be prepared to expand your operations quickly and have available resources to service new clients. You need to onboard new employees fast, and existing ones have to work faster to cater to the influx. This means your teams must KNOW your processes to keep standards up and maintain high-quality output.
Why should you document the process?
Improved quality
Improved productivity
Better customer service
While documenting the process, you can brainstorm on how to improve it
Maintain consistency and manage risks
Efficient onboarding of new employees
Build up a bank of company knowledge
Help you scale in the best way
Conclusion
Many of us are guilty of having a backlog on our process documentation, and every little improvement goes a long way if they are in order. At Optimize Management Group, we can take on your Process Documentation and complete it for you using real project management methodologies geared towards systemization and process. We know how to document processes, and in one simple project, we can have your company knowledge bank up-to-date and in order. Contact us today!
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