In the last post, we looked at barriers in the workplace and the reasons work is not efficient as it could be.
Before we dive into the actual steps of simplifying work, we first need to understand the Simple Work framework; its purpose, requirements and outcomes.
The Purpose of Simple Work
To define Simple Work simply means enhancing the flow of work by minimising or removing unnecessary methods and steps to achieve a smooth system. Now, what’s the foundation of all this? Work involves effort which is not a bad thing, but often involves unnecessary and wasteful effort that does not achieve the end goals. As the workplace gets even more dynamic, we need to categorise priorities accurately. Once our plate gets full at work, the weaknesses of these inefficiencies are exposed and must be addressed to restore balance and effective outcomes.
This is where the Simple Work framework comes into its own. We are not machines and cannot work endlessly. So to be effective, we need to commit to actually doing less work by analysing workflows and prioritising goals and needs. If a task takes a long time for little benefit or reward, then the question must be asked if the value is worth the effort. It does not mean being uncommitted entirely; it is about decreasing your workload to a sustainable level with maximum benefit, commitment and productivity.
The Requirements for Simple Work
For Simple Work to actually work, we need to be realistic about the requirements. Regardless of the size and scope of workflow transformation required, there are several ingredients that are needed to be agreed on from the outset:
Harbour the Drive For Change
We know that to create a change, we need to have the drive to do so. Having the right motivation and team commitment will ensure that we accomplish the goals and vision, prevent setbacks and misunderstandings, and build a positive culture to set the right priorities.
Invest Time
For strategies that involve changing, other than convincing people to be on board with you, you need to invest the time to design the Simple Work strategy that is best for your organisation. It is like changing a plane engine while you are in flight. The extra effort is required while you maintain business as usual, but the long term benefits will multiply the work put in now.
Be Committed
Your system will not start with a simple snap of the fingers, so you must be committed. You must be committed to the process and have ownership over the process. It will help you get one step closer to your goals with an engaged workforce.
Think Clarity Over Resources
No matter how many resources you currently possess, it will be of little significance if you do not have clarity over your workflows and goals. You must understand where you are now, where you want to be, and how to manage the change.
The Rewards of Simple Work
Over time, as you finally design and implement your new Simple Work plan, you will see results and bear the fruits of your hard work.
Impact
You will begin to notice the impact Simple Work has on your work, and this will spread to the rest of your workforce and beyond to your clients. In turn, Simple Work will provide greater unity, motivation, productivity and morale within your team and move your organisation in leaps and bounds.
Sustainability
Having more control of your workload will also produce better levels of sustainability and help you succeed in reaching your goals and KPIs. It will allow you to showcase more innovation and higher levels of productive activity instead of needless administration, manual labour, wasteful management and miscommunication.
Clarity
You will also receive clarity in the long run solely because you will have everything laid out and prioritised in a Simple Work plan, which will generate even more clarity for your organisation.
Rejuvenate
An added benefit for reducing your workload is that you will have more time to rest and rejuvenate. And who would pass on the opportunity, right?!
Are you ready?
In employing the proper mindset and conditions to successfully make work simple, use the Simple Work readiness assessment to ensure you are ready for change.
Now that we have set out almost everything you need to know about Simple Work, we get super practical in Part 3 of Simple Work on how to simplify your workflows & systems.
If you are interested in discussing how to simplify work, book in for a quick 10 minute strategy chat.
P.S. Check out our next post for Part 3 on Making Work Simple.