While at times it may seem like allowing employees free reign over their tasks is best, it’s important to remember that organisations have established methods of control for a variety of reasons. Control methods are often put in place to make sure deadlines are met, to control the number of errors that are made, and to ensure overall success.

There are four main things control does for an organisation:

• It helps everyone within the group adapt to environmental changes;
• Reduce the instance of error;
• Manage complexity within the organisation; and
• Minimize operating costs.

Each of these factors is incredibly important, especially in today’s turbulent economy. No one can afford to make mistakes that cause us to lose clients or waste money on unnecessary expenses.

For example, a few years ago the beautiful fountain in front of the Travelers Insurance corporate headquarters in the US broke down. It would have cost $60,000 to repair the fountain. Would you spend $60,000 on something like that today? Of course, it would look terribly unprofessional to have a broken fountain outside the building, so the CEO instead authorized the company spend only $20,000. They used that money to fill the fountain with dirt and plant a tree. In the end, they’ll save thousands of dollars because the tree will require very little maintenance.

In this New Year we’re going to take a close look at how well you control your organisation. You’ll soon see how your communication, influential, management, and leadership skills must all come together in order for you to keep a tight grip on the reigns!

Thanks again,

Sean

Sean McPheat
Managing Director
MTD Management Training

Click below for a:
Free email course “Improve your Management Skills”

We’ve spent a lot of time exploring different management models, but one that should be included at the end of any new project is the debrief cycle. Just as a project begins, it must also end, but it shouldn’t simply drop off the face of the earth without a word.

The debrief cycle gives managers and project leaders the opportunity to review the work that was done and note not only the outcome of the project but the efforts each team member made in bringing the project to completion. During the debriefing process a few different things will take place.

First we’ll ask ourselves questions about the choices we made during the planning and execution phases of the project. You’ll explore to determine whether or not there were things that could have been done differently or more effectively from the start.

Afterwards you’ll review the overall outcome of the project. Did you achieve the desired outcome? Could you have made changes throughout the life of the project to enhance the final outcome?

The debrief cycle gives everyone on the team an opportunity to participate. Each member should be able to ask questions and respond from his or her own perspective. This will enable you to get a better idea of how well your team works not only as a group but as individual members also.

Do you take the time to sit down with your team members and discuss projects as they end, or do you simply move on to the next task? If you’re skipping the debrief cycle you’re missing out on a great opportunity to learn about the things you could do differently in future projects!

Thanks again,

Sean

Sean McPheat
Managing Director
MTD Management Training

Click below for a:
Free email course “Improve your Management Skills”