Biz systemization means automating aspects of your business so that they can run without you. This means looking at your workflow as a series of systems and then seeing how those systems can be ‘upgraded’ to positively influence your profits and to save you time and money.
But when you read about biz systemization, it will often be in vague terms unless you’re willing to pay. It’s hard to find concrete strategies you can use to systemize your workflow, so to get you started and to give you an introduction to the subject, here are some that you can use right away…
Flow Charts
A flow chart is a diagram that basically says, ‘if this happens then do this’. This is perfect for diagnostics, for dealing with problems that arise and for making sure the precise same approach is used to similar situations in different contexts. Give your staff flow charts and the manager will receive far fewer questions.
Check Lists
Check lists meanwhile are lists that ensure nothing is being overlooked when carrying out a process. They can avoid mistakes and again they reduce questions and ‘communication overhead’.
Software
Many programs can automate and systemize aspects of your business. You can use something like IFTTT for instance to have e-mails added to a to-do list on Google Drive or you can use WordPress to save time when creating web designs.
But taking this to the next level means creating custom software that can take care of the smaller jobs you find yourself repeatedly doing.
Tools
Similar is using tools. These include force multipliers which create more output from the same amount of input (like a hammer, computer or a forklift) and automation – which might mean digital manufacturing tools to remove the manual labor component of your business.
Generating Passive Income
If you’re keen to take your systemization to the next level, you can look at business models that will generate income passively. This can mean selling a digital product or working as a contractor and taking commission.
Project Management
Project management means approaching a project in the most efficient way possible so as to avoid complications and to prepare for any contingencies. This doesn’t just have to apply to construction, the same techniques can also be used in office work.
Removing Communication Overhead
Use systems to remove all the unnecessary communications that bog down workflow and slow you down.
Training and Team Building
Develop your team enough and show the how to deal with a crisis and eventually you can remove the need for your input in the vast majority of cases. Your objective is to make yourself obsolete!