Productivity consists of two main areas: Programs and Efficiency.

Let’s talk about Programs first.

The first aspect to programs is a good structure within your organization. You staff will work more fluently if there is a visible organizational chart available. The chart should include a hierarchy as well as titles.  Your chart should include all divisions and departments within your business, as well as where each employee fits within those departments.  This alleviates all doubt of who should be doing what task and who should be answering to whom.

A policies and procedure manual is essential. That way each of your employees know their specific responsibilities, their targeted results, to whom they directly report, and how they contribute to the success of your business. This helps to create personal responsibility, enhances the communication within your office and minimizes human drama. Never underestimate the strength of Standard Operating Procedures coupled with a strong Roles and Responsibility Guide.

The truth is, you are preparing for the worst case scenario.  You can find it similar to having a will.  If you have SOP’s and R & R’s on hand, if one employee is unable to do their duties a map is already in place for someone to help out or take over that position. This also comes in handy when you are hiring new staff.

The second aspect to programs is well thought-out and written strategies for the different aspects of your business. You follow the same pattern as you did when you did your general business planning. Keeping the end in mind, you work backwards to develop a sequential strategy for marketing, promotion, finance, production, as well as employee development. The important thing to keep in mind is to not run faster than you have strength.

The third aspect to programs is the implementation of your structure and programs. This seems to be the hardest part for any business. Thousands of dollars have been spent on software, programs, and consulting and then the implementation falls short and that money has been wasted. Be diligent in making everyone follow the same standards. If an employee can’t follow the standards, then they can’t be part of the company. The minute you let one person slide it’s a very slippery slope.