4 Ways to create structure
Most SMME’s operate on an ad-hoc basis or a few basic repeatable actions in order to deliver products and services to customer. By ad-hoc I mean – employees do what it takes to get the job done and once there are a few basic repeatable actions, it means basic management processes & controls to track progress e.g. weekly reports, are in place. In order for a business to move from one level of maturity to the next, a business needs some sort of structure to standardize the management of employees and to create effective, efficient and consistent standards in delivering products and services to customers – this manages the expectations of the employees and that of the customer.
Here are 4 ways to create structure in your business:
- Job descriptions
These indicate the value of the role within the company, and layout the expectations of the management team to the employee.
- Employee manuals i.e. Human Resource (HR) Management Policies
The house rules for the business. The benchmark for the business in terms of how employees conduct themselves and the expected response from management – what is common sense to one is not for the other.
- Operations Manuals
The benchmark for the processes that make the business operate as intended to ensure effectiveness, efficiency and consistency – the how to guide for the business.
- Disciplinary policy
Managing poor performance and disregard of company standards.
These 4 ways to create structure need to be adapted to cater for any changes in the business to ensure the business can reach the next level of maturity.
