The “S” stands for “Standard”
In a conversation with a past client, we were discussing the importance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) when managing data. I refer to this, generically, as documentation. Your processes need to be written down so that staff knows how to manage the data.
My client pointed out that one of their challenges is that staff isn't following the SOPs closely enough. I said "Well, it's called "standard" for a reason; everyone has to do it the same way." My client quickly replied, "The "S" does not stand for "suggested."" *
TRUTH!
So ask yourself, in your organization, are the SOPs standard, or are they suggested? If they aren't standard, you're going to have trouble.
*Props to Bill at HFTP for this great line!
Wes's Wednesday Wisdom Archives
"Experience is unobservable to everyone except the person who it happens to."
In Dan Gilbert’s book Stumbling on Happiness, he writes: “Experience is unobservable to everyone except […]
Know Your Audience Before You Speak
This one may seem obvious, but when you’re speaking to anyone, whether it’s one person, […]
"Behavior is a function of the person in their environment."
Lewin’s equation says “behavior is a function of the person in their environment.” (He was […]
Signal-to-noise ratio
Signal-to-noise ratio Signal-to-noise ratio, formally used, applies to electricity and engineering, and refers to how […]
Consultants bring perspective
Consultants bring perspective At a recent speaking engagement, I was asked what I think is […]
Garbage in, gospel out
Garbage in, gospel out We’ve all heard the phrase “Garbage in, garbage out.” If the […]
Dramatic change does not happen overnight
Dramatic change does not happen overnight Like most things in life, dramatic change does not […]
Implementation Intention
Implementation Intention Editor’s note: I have a new email newsletter, sent weekly, called Wes’s Wednesday […]