It took me some time to realise the importance of having processes and systems in place, both in business and in life. First and foremost, I had to understand how not using processes and systems can negatively impact everything. This was a valuable lesson for someone who used to think that processes only mattered in business.
My light bulb moment was when I started reading a book by Brain P Morgan, The 12 Week Planning, which also highlights how crucial processes are in helping us to implement our plans.When we reached out to Mighty Mabule, we knew that we were talking to someone who has a deeper understanding of how having processes and systems can catapult your business to success.
With over 13 years of experience, Mabule is a seasoned professional in guiding SMMEs to success. His corporate background includes roles such as Strategic Manager, Operations Manager, Business Advisor, and Trainer. Mabule is not only a subject matter expert but has also collaborated with numerous business leaders, assisting them in implementing effective processes and systems within their organisations.We sat down with Mabule, and filed the following interview.
First things first. Let’s understand the problem. Why do businesses need processes and systems in place?
They need them so that they don’t struggle with efficiency, productivity, quality assurance, scalability, communication and customer satisfaction amongst others.
Processes and systems are essential for businesses to operate smoothly, manage resources effectively, maintain quality standards, adapt to changing circumstances and ensure effectiveness. They provide a structured framework that supports the overall goals and growth of the organisation.
What framework or steps must one take to set up systems and processes in a business to ensure smooth operation?
Setting up systems and processes in a business involves a systematic approach. Framework entails the following tasks amongst others:
- Define Objectives
- Identify Key Processes
- Document existing processes
- Engage stakeholders
- Design efficient processes
- Implement supporting systems
- Provide training
- Establish
- Key Performance indicators (KPIs)
- Document procedures and policies
- Regularly review and update
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement
- Ensure compliance
Can you share specific examples of processes and systems that you’ve implemented or other case studies?
We have successfully applied various systems and processes for our clients and can offer you a selection of them. Here are a few examples:
- Quality Management System (QMS):
Objective: Ensure consistent product or service quality.
Implementation: Establish a QMS to define quality standards, track and monitor product or service quality, conduct regular audits, and manage corrective and preventive actions.
- Project Management System:Objective: Improve project planning, execution, and collaboration.
Implementation: Deploy a project management system to define project timelines, allocate resources, track progress, and facilitate communication among project team members.
Financial Management System:
Objective: Enhance financial control and reporting.
Implementation: Adopt a financial management system to automate accounting processes, manage budgeting and forecasting, and generate accurate financial reports.
What challenges have you faced in establishing these processes, and what steps did you take to address them?
I have encountered a few challenges, such as employees being resistant to change and struggling to accept new ways of doing things. At times, they found it difficult to follow management’s directives.
How do you ensure that your team understands and follows the established processes consistently?
Firstly, I ensure that processes are clearly documented using manuals, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and guidelines. These documents are made easily accessible to all team members.
Secondly, I enroll them in training programs, including continuous training sessions and hands-on workshops. Additionally, I utilise technology to implement automation tools.
Lastly, I emphasise the importance of communication with employees through team meetings, newsletters, or communication platforms. This helps reinforce the importance of following established procedures.
What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs who want to improve their business processes to achieve greater autonomy and efficiency?
As an entrepreneur, you need to start by defining your objectives. These will serve as the blueprint for your business. While at it, make sure that you involve your team in this process, as they will play a crucial role in execution.
Save time and money by investing in technology; free training is often available for your team to learn new tools.
Aim to foster a culture of continuous improvement by constantly seeking ways to enhance your operations.
Pay attention to these key areas:
- Establishing key performance indicators (KPIs)
- Empowering employees
- Monitoring industry best practices
- Ensuring scalability
Allocating resources wisely what role do, SOPs, delegation and outsourcing play in helping entrepreneurs reclaim time from day-to-day operations, and how can these strategies be effectively implemented?
SOPs play a crucial role in establishing consistency, reducing errors, and providing a structured Delegation assists in allowing entrepreneurs to focus on high-priority activities that require their expertise while empowering team members to contribute to the organisation’s success.
Outsourcing helps the business to be cost-effective as specialised skills and resources from outside the company are used without the need for in-house expertise. This helps in increasing focus on core business activities and reducing the operational costs amongst others.
Mabule recommends the following tools or technologies to streamline administrative tasks, freeing up more time for focusing on business growth and innovation.
Project Management and Collaboration:Trello: A visual project management tool that helps teams organise tasks and collaborate on projects.
Asana: A project management platform that enables teams to coordinate and manage work efficiently.
Communication and Collaboration: Slack: A messaging platform for team communication and collaboration.
Microsoft Teams: A collaborative platform that integrates with other Microsoft Office applications for communication and file sharing.
Document Management: Google Workspace (formerly G Suite): Includes tools like Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides for collaborative document creation and storage.
Dropbox Business: A cloud-based file storage and collaboration platform.
Customer Relationship Management (CRM):HubSpot: Offers a CRM system along with marketing and sales tools for managing customer relationships.
Salesforce: A comprehensive CRM platform for sales, marketing, and customer support.
Email Marketing:
Mailchimp: An email marketing platform that helps businesses create and automate email campaigns.
Constant Contact: Provides email marketing, social media posting, and online survey tools.
Finance and Accounting:
QuickBooks: Accounting software for small businesses that streamlines financial management.
Xero: Cloud-based accounting software with features for invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting.
Human Resources (HR):BambooHR: An HR software solution that includes features for employee onboarding, time tracking, and performance management.
Workday: An integrated suite for HR, finance, and planning.
E-commerce Platforms: Shopify: An e-commerce platform that simplifies the process of setting up and managing online stores.
WooCommerce: A WordPress plugin for adding e-commerce functionality to websites.