Leadership for Business Improvements / Process Flow Analysis

The following is a procedural review of how to improve a (warehouse/transport/distribution/supply chain) business by process analysis. A business has (2) two basic entities” People and Processes”. The key to foster a highly efficient & productive environment is to focus on these two entities. This article will explain process analysis improvements.The tracking and analysis of the entire “flow” in the environment is very important to ensure that there are no issues. The first part of this strategy is to research the total process which entails creating a “flow chart” of all product and information flow thru the entire business. The next step is interacting with all associates who are assigned to all the functions in the process flow to gather their input with the each of their areas of processes. The associates that are responsible to perform the tasks in the flow of processes and procedures have vast knowledge of both the issues that occur and also the areas of improvements needed. Establishing a strong working relationship with the key associates is of utmost importance to gather all of the pertinent information to maximize the level of improvements. The keys to relationship building with these associates are showing a consistent and high level of care, respect and professional yet engaging demeanor in a daily basis. A strong work ethic will also greatly gain respect of all key associates observing entire business process regardless of shift.The other important part of this topic is also learning as well as performing all of the key associate’s tasks to achieve a more thorough understanding of all processes in the business. Many supervisors and managers who are responsible for the tasks in the process flow are in their roles either by attrition as well as seniority. They need to be held accountable for these tasks as well as having the proper tools and ability to perform their responsibilities (i.e. Employee Suitability). The next step is the gathering of all the procedures of the entire flow of product in the business environment. Most businesses have outdated or not very defined processes and procedures to ensure a very efficient and issue free process flow. This issue occurs frequently in most business and management will place many associates or additional procedures on the issue yet not analyzing the “root cause” of the issue to prevent future occurrences. The final step in the restructuring of the environment is to have all associates signoff on the new job descriptions. This must encompass their new restructured and detailed procedures they are responsible for in a new tightly controlled process flow. The associates responsible for the new defined procedures must be held accountable for all tasks performed in the processes.

This will create a highly productive, efficient and cost effective business environment as well as increasing service levels.

Author – Tim Calie - LinkedIn25+ Yrs. - Reducing Costs / Increasing Service Levels / Profitability and Service Awards - Major Retailers