As we face the first quarter of a new year, the question looming out there haunts us…so, what’s next…how do we improve…what is a safe, calculated risk…in a slowing economy, how do we move our companies forward?
Business seminars, trade shows and management literature have become a thriving concern…due in some part to anxious and even fearful corporate leaders, who are nervously seeking out the next, best idea. The expectation being that somewhere, out there, lurks a truly golden idea that will propel our firms beyond the competition and into a productive future.
But, before you book that ticket to the next Vegas trade show or register for some cold-cut sandwich, airport seminar or get your frequent shopper card at Barnes & Noble, let me suggest that the hidden treasure you’re seeking may be very nearby, residing in your data and personnel and it won’t cost a dime. Intrigued? Give me a few moments.
Each year, as an ISO certified company, a number of activities take place that may provide you with useful information and potential business development ideas. Let’s take a brief look at each pool of ideas:
- Management/Business Reviews and ISO Preparation / In maintaining your certification, you have agreed to conduct ongoing management reviews throughout the year. These reviews furnish your firm with an opportunity to assess internal focus on corporate goals. In sync with the review process, production data and shop floor realities, as well as feedback from customers, suppliers and other interested parties will assist with the assessment. Throughout the year, various elements of both risk and opportunity may cause the firm to amend previously established goals. The recent federal shutdown brings into specific focus the type of risks that may mandate such a reexamination.
- Previous/Current ISO Audits / After your firm passes its’ latest ISO audit, do you simply expel a large sigh of relief, give the quality department some “at-a-boys” and file the paper for historic reference? Let me suggest that there may be good fortune buried in that paperwork. If you experienced a finding, it is imperative that your firm address the issue, before you achieve recertification. But, what about the OFI’s (opportunities for improvement)? You may dismiss these suggestions as observations by people who know little to nothing about your business…your firm…your marketplace; and if this is your response, you couldn’t be more off-target. ISO auditors are knowledgeable professionals, who have logged hundreds of hours, confidentially reviewing and overseeing the business practices of dozens of various firms…perhaps, including some of your suppliers, clients and competitors. Exam their findings and ask specific, probing questions, both positive and negative, regarding what they’ve seen at your company. The answers may prove to be invaluable to both you and your firm. Perhaps the labor you’ve devoted to the management review process has your firm mentioned as being among those of a “Best Practice” status.
- People / Consider the possibility of developing a “management by walking/talking” approach. How often does your owner/investor get out to the production floor? When is the last time the Materials VP talked to the warehouse staff? Does the Logistics manager ever spend take out on the dock, noting the ebb and flow of shipments, both in and out? Some comments heard on the floor are throwaway ideas or ill-tempered complaints; however, there are often gems hidden in the ongoing work conversation. The majority of workers care deeply about the health and success of the firm. Their future success and yours are one and the same. Listen to their comments and suggestions; understand their “hands-on” observations; appreciate the time and concerns they invest in the firm. Success is achieved and goals are met not by managers alone; rather, an entire team of people, including staff, management, suppliers, clients and ownership, are critical to meet today’s needs and tomorrow’s goals.
Truth is that none of us knows the future. But, for those firms who are prepared to use the knowledge and resources already at their fingertips, the next, best idea may be just around the corner. Be alert; be engaged; be open to the possibilities of a developing future.