When evaluating systems and processes for improvement, it’s common to jump to the solution. We want to rescue the situation. Bring salvation to this annoying SOP. Optimize immediately!

Before you start solutioning take the time to slow down and create a process map of the current procedure. Where does it start? Who is responsible? Is it a task or approval? Are any outputs or documents needed? When is it considered complete?

Mapping this out creates the visual necessary for A.) confirming you understand the process B.) getting others’ sign-off on what’s happening today and C.) allowing you to mark the areas to remove/improve so you can make the biggest impact.

And should your new process work well, you now have clear documentation to contrast all the efficiencies and improvements.