Productivity isn’t about pushing employees to work harder but rather about improving the systems they work within. This is the central premise of a theory that argues for a focus on improving systems, processes, and tools to enhance overall productivity. It suggests that companies often wrongly assume that productivity issues stem from employees not working hard enough, whereas the real issue often lies in outdated or inefficient systems.
A key example of this is the use of outdated software that slows down work rather than speeding it up. Employees often spend unnecessary time navigating such systems, which could be better spent on more productive tasks. To address this, companies should invest in modern, user-friendly software that streamlines tasks and reduces wasted time.
Another critical area for improvement is communication. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, duplicated work, or tasks falling through the cracks. Implementing clear communication channels and protocols can significantly improve productivity.
Lastly, companies should consider their decision-making processes. Slow or unclear decision-making can cause delays and reduce efficiency. By improving these processes, companies can ensure tasks are completed more swiftly and effectively.
In essence, by focusing on improving systems rather than pushing employees to work harder, companies can significantly enhance productivity. It’s about working smarter, not harder.
Go to source article: https://hbr.org/2021/01/productivity-is-about-your-systems-not-your-people