For most of us the New Year usually means resolutions. These promises can take the form of going to the gym or shedding some pounds added during the holidays. Or we can look at how we manage our business and try to discover new ways to improve. Cutting costs and increasing sales are likely at the top of everyone’s list. So we may go to Google, Twitter, LinkedIn, Salesforce or your favorite blog and try to find a new insight or perspective. If you are like most of us we are determined to identify that magic formula or bullet. We insist on quick fixes. Some work, most do not. So what’s the answer? The answer is really quite simple and you likely know the answer- at least part of the answer.
Begin by looking at how you currently manage your business. Our strengths and weaknesses must be inventoried. Make a list with two columns. I know this sounds old fashioned but some things cannot be cured by technology alone. This process is called a business or needs analysis. You and your team can begin this systematic evaluation or you can engage a consultant for a fresh perspective. This is the most important aspect to any improvement initiative. Simply, we must know where we are if we are to implement sustainable change. Look for one of our next posts discussing alignment with technology and long term adoption. Happy New Year!