Badges cost

Many industrial and commercial sectors have quality 'badges' ... hey, we are certified by ...

Sometimes these are helpful (in attracting new customers/clients); sometimes they are almost essential.

Sometimes there are multiple, competing badges.

Just remember that these cost you money - you almost certainly pay a fee and, of course, it will cost you quite a lot to understand and then comply with any regulations imposed.

So, treat such badges like you would any other investment - and do a cost-benefit assessment before going ahead.

Also remember that the real judges of your quality are your customers!

Work Flow

I saw a post on a (different) blog recently which talked about various tools to improve workflow.

As I read it, I realized that the tools were irrelevant.  The author was using the (excuse of) the tools to design a workflow ... but this would have worked just as well with a different set of tools, and almost certainly without any tools at all.

So think about the workflow - not about the tools.  Think about the sequence of activities, the layout of workstations, the time taken at each one, how things are checked for errors, how they are handed from one workstation to another.  And then think whether tools (whether that be fork lift trucks or software) would help.

Tools can make things more efficient - but without a proper design of the workflow itself, they might just speed up your inefficiencies.

What did you learn last year?

If you are a professional (accountant, lawyer or ...) you almost certainly have to go through some process of continuing professional development - attending courses or other events which keep you up-to-date and extend your skills and knowledge.

Though this might at times seem to be a 'drag', it is useful.

So, if you are not one of these 'chosen professions', make it your business to do it anyway.

Reflect on what you learnt last year, what did you do to make you better at what you do.

Nothing! Shame on you! You now should have a(nother) New year Resolution.

Good will

Your employees are back from the holidays. So are you.

Everyone should be feeling good ... if a little tired!

So, take advantage of the good will. Talk to your employees. Find out what they expect from the new year, what they hope for.

Then work out whether you can make the reality match these expectations and desires ... at least in part.

You might just end up with a more contented and more productive workforce.