The Need for Systems

27th September 2012

Systems, don’t you just love them? For me I used to hate the idea of systems, and even more the actual necessity of writing them, but the more I have worked with businesses over the years I realise how essential they are for so many reasons.

My wife has been on a well earned holiday break this week, and before she went away she wrote down daily chores and systems, so that as each day as each day goes by, I can keep up with all the key things which need to function while she is away. How the washing machine works, when the rubbish goes out, what to feed all the different animals and when, and most importantly when to send my daughter off to school and what she needs to take etc. I’m pleased to report, so far so good. No major disasters, as the instructions have been exemplary.

To go back to business now, this is exactly what should happen when you (or indeed any of your staff) are ill or go on holiday. The systems should be so clear and complete, that anyone can cover, and make sure that when the missing person gets back, that everything is up to date and still running smoothly.

Is this the case in your business? If not what are you doing about it, and indeed when were you last able to go on holiday without constantly being in touch with your office?

Systemising your business not only ensures the smooth running of your business when you or other staff members are away, but it also means things are done consistently, and ultimately you create an eminently sellable business which can work without you.

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