Latest Articles
- 10 Tips for Creating a Data Goldmine
I have been working with many clients who have their information in a database but are unable to get the information they want or know where to find it. Usually the culprit is a series of issues that come together to create the perfect storm of inefficiency. The tips below will help you to prevent this storm and maximize the information in your database to increase productivity and profits.
- How to Make More Money in 2012 with Data Driven Decisions
I have mentioned in many of my articles about metrics. Things we use to measure success and how far you are from reaching your goals. Data is much more than that – it is a valuable tool to make solid business decisions. It also helps you to save as well as make money. Below are some of the metrics you can use to help grow your bottom line in 2012.
- Why Effective Reporting Makes You Money
Many organizations today rely heavily on their technology to get things done. This is something that will become increasingly important as we move into the future. Those who have learned to leverage the information they have can effectively market, close sales, produce their products or services quicker and save money on maintaining those customers. One way to achieve this is through effective reporting.
- Top 10 Reasons Why You Need a Bookkeeping System
As technology progresses it is becoming increasingly important for companies and non-profits to track their information. In a previous article I discussed how to maximize your customer relationship management software. This month I am going to talk about your bookkeeping system. These two areas tend to be neglected by a new business or existing businesses using an effective system that is too difficult to maintain. Either scenario will cost you money, time and sales. Below are the top 10 reasons why you should use a bookkeeping system.
- 7 Ways to Keep Your Database from Becoming a Digital Clothes Hanger
As part of the new reality, organizations are doing more with less. This translates into reduced staff, resources and in some cases office space. This has created the necessity to examine how organizations can use technology to be more efficient. One way is to purchase Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software. Doing a thorough research process and testing prior to buying your system. Once purchased, I encourage you to take the necessary steps to avoid it becoming a digital clothes hanger – aka an unused treadmill. Here are some tips on how to avoid this dilemma for yourself.
Standardization of Workflow Processes – 5S
Before an organization can begin to streamline and reduce waste in the office they need to create standards and best practices. We help our clients do this through the 5S system. This is the foundation for any lean office initiative and the start of an organization’s journey to become a lean enterprise.
5S Encompasses the following:
- Sorting
Sorting is the first step to making a work area neat and practical. Keep only what is necessary
- Set-In-Order
Identify and label everything. Organize and arrange everything in a work area. Setting-In-Order provides the most efficient means for retrieval and return of items to their proper place.
- Shine
Implement regularly scheduled cleaning practices to shine things up. When a structured system is established and becomes part of the culture, cleaning and inspection (audit) can be done quickly.
- Standardize and Simplify
Continually look for ways to standardize and simplify the work area or process(es).
- Sustain
Sustain the benefits you derive from your 5S system by creating a formal method of auditing and monitoring results.
The benefits of doing this first and vital step is reducing wasted time and materials, improving office productivity, improved morale and an organized work environment. Anyone who has worked in a cluttered office knows how disruptive it is to workflow and mental focus. 5S creates an environment of productivity and pride. This will trickle into other areas of the business as well. We assist our clients in creating a 5S environment for their office by working with staff and management through each “S” in the process.
- Diagram provided by The Lean Store - Lean Office Training Set