February 22, 2010

Getting Things Right With Checklists

For a simple explanation of the power of check lists with review process take a few minutes to read Mathew E May’s How To Get Things Right

We’ve included some interesting excerpts (italics) in the article below to set the scene, because we agree with every word. Not surprising since we built the concept into Front Office Box, with Plans and Actions displayed as checklists – for each individual, for each opportunity, for each customer and in a timeline for our entire business.

Just about the only thing we would add to Mathew’s suggestions is get some good software to help you create, share and review these checklists. While you’re here check out the video at the bottom of the page, and follow the link in the sidebar to create your own Front Office Box.

Check List Best Practice

“As a master kaizen instructor, I’ve come to know and understand just how impactful a simple checklist can be, irrespective of your work or business. The kaizen process is based on three steps: create a standard, follow it, and look for a better way. Repeat endlessly. Trying to improve and innovate without a standard as reference is like a journey with no starting point. And more often than not, the standard created is indeed a simple checklist.”
“Now, there are three basic steps required to deploy a checklist:

1. Establish a Best Practice. Make sure it’s the best-known method. Get input and feedback from those doing the work. Get agreement on it.

2. Make it Visible. Accessibility is key. Hiding it in a drawer won’t work. Post it or publish it so everyone will constantly be aware of it.

3. Communicate. Inform everyone. Prepare and train people. Test it out. Monitor effectiveness and usage.

What happens if the standard isn’t followed? Investigate! Find out why. Is there a better method? Was training adequate? Are there special circumstances? Redesign it if you need to. And keep searching for a better way.”