Greetings and thank you for visiting. As your business systems consultant, my purpose is to help you streamline your operations. Today, I would like to introduce you to some of the terms and acronyms that we will frequently utilize throughout our collaboration. This post covers three main topics: (1) The EDIT framework, which serves as the foundation for our engagement, (2) The Core Business Systems, which will help us identify the areas of your business operations that require attention, and (3) The Rules of Engagement, which will serve as a guide for our collaboration.
As a former military member, I find acronyms to be an efficient way of conveying information and aiding team memory. The EDIT framework is a method I developed after realizing that most business systems go through the same cycle. If you currently lack a framework to facilitate ongoing system improvements, I highly recommend adopting the EDIT approach. This methodology promotes the cultivation of a continuous improvement mindset and can be seamlessly integrated into your business practices.
The EDIT framework consists of four critical steps: EXAMINE, DESIGN, IMPLEMENT, and TRACK, as illustrated in the accompanying image. Please note that while the image depicts the EDIT tenets in a linear, sequential format, we may need to deviate from this pattern depending on the dynamic nature of your business. Regardless, we will consistently apply the EDIT framework to all of your business systems to ensure optimal outcomes.
Based on my extensive experience, training, and research, I have found that most businesses benefit greatly from documenting and streamlining their processes for the seven core business systems. It’s important to note that there are more systems beyond those depicted in the accompanying graphic, but these seven systems are the primary focus of our work together. For those utilizing ClickUp, the graphic illustrates which system encompasses this tool. To promote a productive and effective working relationship, I also created a set of Support Rules of Engagement (ROEs) that apply to both of us and are meant to be separate and distinct from any contractual terms.
The term “Rules of Engagement” is typically associated with military operations. However, in the context of our working relationship, it refers to the guidelines that will define how we treat each other and the value of our collaborative efforts.
- To ensure a successful engagement, it is essential that we establish clear expectations regarding communication frequency, response time, and deliverables. Any disconnects with your team can raise questions about the effectiveness of our partnership, but open communication can resolve these issues.
- I encourage you to make decisions, even about seemingly simple matters that may impact your business and team. While I will offer suggestions and recommendations, the final decision rests with you.
- Please ensure that you prioritize working on your action items, particularly if they have an impact on my deliverables to you. It is also important to keep in mind that many of your actions can affect your team’s ability to complete their tasks effectively.
- Kindly commit to involving key team members at every step, by ensuring that those closest to the issue/challenge or with the most knowledge are included. Their participation is critical to the success of any project.
- Keep your team updated on any items or actions that may have an impact on their assigned tasks. This will help them stay informed and enable them to contribute to the project’s success.
- It is crucial to remain patient during the initial stages of our collaboration and beyond. Building exceptional team dynamics takes time and effort. Communication is key, and it takes at least 90 days to learn about each other’s nuances.
- Fully commit to utilizing the tools that you have chosen to implement in your business. If you encounter difficulties, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Help can be found through various resources such as help files or with me via Zoom when applicable.
- Remember that a systems project such as this can be time-consuming, and may require some trial and error before getting it right. The process requires time and effort and involves learning, preparation, adjustments, and beta testing.
- Ultimately, your goal should be to achieve the best possible results for your business. This entails avoiding impulsive changes and making frequent adjustments. Instead, it involves measuring and assessing the outcomes of your decisions and being willing to switch strategies if necessary. This applies to your team, platforms, and processes.
- Lastly, it is important to limit frustrations and enjoy the process of positioning your business for growth & scaling.
My EDIT framework and the core business systems are part of my toolbox and will help me to help you. Also from my toolbox, the Support Rules of Engagement provide the guidance we need to not lose sight of the value of our collaboration. Together, these tools help us nurture and infuse a culture of continuous process improvement leading to increased efficiency, productivity, and overall success. 🦋 🦋