6 Ways to Improve Processes Within Your Business

business processes

A business is a collection of various processes that come together to make the organization work. The more efficiently your business processes run, the more productive and profitable your business will become.

Improving business processes is integral for entrepreneurs with minimal resources. Process improvements positively impact your cash flow but also make it easier to delegate or outsource as needed.

If your business has been going with the flow, challenge the status quo with these six ways to improve your business processes.



Audit Your Existing Processes

Before you start making changes within your company, you must first understand the nuances of the existing processes. Going through the existing processes and evaluating crucial factors such as user-friendliness, time spent completing tasks, and potential friction points are crucial first steps.

After you audit your existing processes, you can start to prioritize and create improvement plans based on your findings. Taking this approach is the epitome of “if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it; improve it.”

Invest in Training

Managing business processes is an acquired skill. For most entrepreneurs and business owners, getting into the weeds with operations can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are training options available to help you outline, analyze, and improve processes within your business.

Programs like the world-renowned Six Sigma Certification offer training on making strategic improvements in processes with a project management approach. This training not only adds value in your own business but when working with partners or clients as well.

Create Standard Operating Procedures

Once you’ve outlined your existing processes, take the time to create and record standard operating procedures (SOPs). These documents could be recorded via text, training videos, or some combination of each.

The benefit of having SOP records on hand is that they can be used to train new employees or outsourced contractors. These documents are invaluable for onboarding new team members or delegating core business tasks should you become incapacitated or need a vacation.

Creating SOPs also makes it easier to revisit processes in the future and make updates without reinventing the wheel.

Outline Tools and Resources for Improvement

Once you’ve outlined the gaps in your existing processes, outline what tools and resources you need to make improvements. Take the time to research tools and applications that both fit your business needs and budget.

Fortunately, many tools are available with a tiered pricing system, making them free for basic users. However, it’s beneficial to invest in paid tools and subscriptions if the opportunity cost shows merit.

Consult with Experts

If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room. Rather than relying on your experience and education so far, seek the advice of a mentor or a trusted advisor who has walked the road before you.

Depending on the structure of your business, you might also have to consult your key stakeholders or investors for direction. It’s also worth hiring a consultant with knowledge in process change and design for core business improvements during periods of growth and evolution.

Focus on High-Value Process Improvements

Finally, evaluate the improvement opportunities and prioritize which ones hold the most value for your business. For example, if you discover that outsourcing social media management will free up enough time to find new clients, the return on investment is worth the expense.

Ideally, the top priority items will be revenue-generating processes like sales, rather than non-revenue generating tasks like administration. Those smaller processes should be addressed eventually to improve productivity and time management, but it’s best to start investing in high ROI improvements.

Improving business processes doesn’t happen overnight; it’s an ongoing process in itself. However, adjusting your efforts and creating consistency throughout your business will help you grow sustainably.



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Editorial Staff

This article was written by SBMarketingTools.com editorial staff.