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- LEARNING HOW TO LEARN: PRACTICAL TIPS TO STAY UPDATED AND COMPETITIVE
Extract Acquiring and perfecting the ability to learn is the balance that defines whether our life will be one of continuous growth and success, or stagnation and failure. Developing this skill allows us to quickly adapt to changes in the market, grow personally and professionally, and remain competitive in a constantly evolving business environment. Contents The Challenge of Staying Aware of New Trends, Technologies and Methodologies How to be one of the Pioneers? 1. Learn to Unlearn 2. Cultivate a Growth Mindset 3. Develop Metacognitive Skills 4. Master Self-Directed Learning 5. Develop Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills Conclusion: Be a Perpetual Learner The Challenge of Staying Aware of New Trends, Technologies and Methodologies We live in an era where Information and technology advance at a faster pace than we can assimilate as human beings. New tools, methodologies and trends emerge every day that can completely transform the landscape of any sector in a matter of days. In many industries, what we knew a few years ago may be irrelevant or even detrimental to current performance. Faced with this context, it becomes imperative not only to learn new skills and tools, but also to develop the ability to “learn to learn” in a continuous and accelerated manner. This ability allows us to adapt quickly to changes, stay competitive and, above all, grow personally and professionally . The concept of "learning to learn" refers to the ability to acquire new skills or knowledge efficiently and autonomously . In an environment of constant change, this skill has become a valuable asset for professionals and companies alike. If before a single degree could guarantee a stable career, today a continuous effort is required to keep up with the latest trends. How to be one of the Pioneers? In a work environment as dynamic as the one we have today, it is vital to stay informed of changes in the sector of which we are part. To be aware of the latest trends we must: Network and form a community with other professionals to share information about the latest trends and methodologies . Receive valuable and updated information about the latest trends from specialized blogs, magazines and newsletters such as Harvard Business Review, Gartner, TechCrunch or MIT Technology Review. Participate in industry events such as conferences and webinars where the most recent innovations in the sector are discussed. By identifying areas for improvement and new learning opportunities during these interactions, we must get started to learn what is new and be one of the pioneers who lead change and transformation in the industry . 1. Learn to Unlearn Learning to learn is not just acquiring information; it also involves unlearning those concepts, habits, ideas or beliefs (paradigms) that, although once useful, are now obsolete or ineffective in the face of new realities , to give space to new forms of knowledge. To do this we must: Question our beliefs and assumptions , and ask ourselves if what we know is still useful or if there is a better way of doing things. Accept change as part of growth , and be willing to admit that we must update ourselves in a world that is constantly changing. Investigate current trends in our sector , and identify if any of the concepts that we consider “basic” need to be updated. Subsequently, we must take the actions that will allow us to take change into our hands and form new habits, beliefs and competencies that give us a competitive advantage over others. 2. Cultivate a Growth Mindset One of the first steps in learning how to learn is to develop what psychologist Carol Dweck calls a "growth mindset." This concept refers to the belief that our skills and knowledge can improve with effort and practice . To do this we must: See mistakes not as failures , but as opportunities to learn. Get out of our comfort zone and look for tasks that demand more from us than usual. Surround ourselves with ambitious people who also value continuous learning and effort. 3. Develop Metacognitive Skills The second step in learning to learn is to develop metacognitive skills, that is, the ability to think about how we learn. This implies being aware of our own learning processes and adjusting our strategies when necessary . To do this, we must: Plan in advance what is going to be learned and how it is going to be developed. Monitor actively the learning process. Assess learning in terms of understanding and application. reinforce learning by "teaching others" to better organize your thoughts and evaluate how much you have really learned. 4. Master Self-Directed Learning In the digital age, access to information is practically unlimited. This gives us the opportunity to take control of our own learning without depending exclusively on teachers or formal institutions. However, the lack of an institutional line can mean that we do not know where to start. To avoid confusion and blurring of learning we must: Define clear goals about what we want to dominate. Dedicate a specific and constant time to learn something new. Take advantage of digital resources such as Blogs, Podcasts, YouTube videos, and courses on Coursera, edX, Udemy or LinkedIn Learning. 5. Develop Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills Critical thinking is one of the most valuable skills today. It is not only about learning facts or concepts, but about knowing, evaluating and analyzing information . In a world full of data, it is essential to be able to discern what is relevant and what is not, as well as make informed decisions. Develop critical thinking (aka computational thinking ) requires: Analyze what happens, especially if it is a problem that requires a solution . Question the information as it is presented to us and ask ourselves if it is logical, coherent and if there is evidence to support it. Compare diverse sources and points of view to have a more complete and objective vision of what is happening. Apply what has been learned and evaluate the results of its application. Conclusion: Be a Perpetual Learner In the digital age, where change is the only constant , the ability to learn is essential to remain competitive, innovative and aware of new trends, technologies and methodologies in the market. Today, there are many strategies and tools that allow us to perform more efficiently and effectively that we must learn to remain competitive. By developing a growth mindset, improving our metacognitive skills, embracing self-directed learning, strengthening critical thinking, and leveraging technological tools, we can become perpetual learners and advance in a constantly evolving business environment . Remember, learning to learn is not only a skill, it is a long-term strategy for success in any field. Get started today! Do you want to know more? Visit our Blog: https://www.consultoriatacs.com/blog Ready to transform your company? Write us at: contacto@consultoriatacs.com Contact us today and find out how we can grow your business together! About Pablo Tellaeche (Author) : Owner and main consultant of TACs Consultores, Lecturer and University Professor; seeks to bring a true and positive Culture Lean and Digital Transformation to any company with which you have the pleasure of collaborating.
- DIGITAL STRATEGIES AND TOOLS TO IMPROVE TIME MANAGEMENT, COMMUNICATION AND CUSTOMER SERVICE
Extract In today's dynamic business environment, strategies and approaches must be adopted that allow organizations to improve their operational efficiency, strengthen the cohesion of their teams and increase customer satisfaction to maintain competitiveness. With recent technological advances in engineering and software, there are multiple technological tools that help companies maximize their results and remain relevant. Contents The Importance of Combining Digital Strategies and Tools in Companies 1. Digital Strategies and Tools to Improve Time Management and Productivity 2. Digital Strategies and Tools to Improve Communication in Companies 3. Digital Strategies and Tools to Improve Customer Service Conclusion: Maximize the Potential of Digital Tools with Effective Strategies The Importance of Combining Digital Strategies and Tools in Companies In a world where digitalization advances at a very rapid pace, companies that do not adapt to new technologies risk being left behind. However, adopting digital tools is not enough to guarantee success . It is essential that these tools are integrated within a coherent business strategy that allows the organization to make the most of its capabilities. The digital tools , from project management platforms to CRM systems, offer the ability to automate tasks, improve communication and optimize customer service. But if they are not accompanied by a clear strategy, these tools can become a burden rather than a help. The key is to understand that technology must be an extension of a well-thought-out strategy, which facilitates and enhances existing processes . 1. Digital Strategies and Tools to Improve Time Management and Productivity Optimizing time management is essential for increasing productivity in any company. Digital tools, when combined with effective strategies, can transform how daily tasks are organized and executed. Below, we will explain some of these key strategies and tools. Establish Clear Priorities with Management Tools Efficient time management begins with clarity in priorities. The digital tools like Trello and Asana They allow you to organize tasks visually and hierarchically, helping teams identify which projects require immediate attention. However, true efficiency is achieved by combining these tools with the methodology Eisenhower, that classifies tasks according to their urgency and importance. This strategy ensures that the team focuses on what really matters, increasing productivity, and avoiding distractions and “emergencies” . Apply the Pomodoro Technique with Concentration Tools The Pomodoro Technique, which is based on dividing work into 25-minute intervals with short breaks, can be enhanced by integrating with tools like Focus Booster or Toggl. These applications allow precise tracking of the time spent on each task, facilitating subsequent analysis to Identify areas for improvement in time management . This strategy is especially useful in environments where multitasking is inevitable, helping to maintain focus and avoid mental exhaustion. Automate Repetitive Tasks with RPAs The task automation It is key to freeing up time and resources that can be allocated to more strategic tasks. Tools like Zapier and Microsoft Power Apps are Robotic Process Automation (RPA) tools that allow you to create automated workflows that eliminate the need to perform repetitive tasks manually. However, the implementation of these tools must be accompanied by a technological integration strategy that identifies the areas where automation will have the greatest impact, thus ensuring effective adoption and tangible improvement in productivity. 2. Digital Strategies and Tools to Improve Communication in Companies Effective communication is essential for the cohesion and success of any multidisciplinary team . Digital tools offer solutions to improve interaction and collaboration in the work environment, but their effectiveness depends on how they are implemented and complemented with appropriate strategies. Below are key approaches to strengthening communication in companies. Foster a Culture of Open Communication with Instant Communication Tools Effective communication is the foundation of a successful team. Slack and Microsoft Teams They are tools that facilitate instant communication and collaboration in real time. But for these tools to be truly effective, must be integrated into a company culture that values transparency and continuous feedback . Implementing regular feedback meetings and establishing topical channels in Slack can help make communication more efficient, direct, and less chaotic. Strengthen Relationships with Video Conferencing Tools In a hybrid or remote work environment, maintaining personal connections can be an issue. Tools like Zoom and Google Meet Not only do they facilitate remote meetings, but they also combined with personalized interaction strategies, They can strengthen relationships between team members. The key is to schedule regular meetings that include moments for informal dialogue, fostering a sense of community and trust among all members of the organization , which is essential for collaborative work. Centralize Information and Documentation with Digital Repositories Quick and easy access to information/documents is essential for effective and fluid communication. Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 They allow documentation to be centralized and ensure that all team members have access to up-to-date information. But beyond the tool, it is vital to develop a document management strategy that clearly defines responsibilities for updating and organizing information , ensuring that the flow of communication is not interrupted by outdated or hard-to-find data. 3. Digital Strategies and Tools to Improve Customer Service Offering excellent customer service is essential for customer loyalty and satisfaction. Digital tools, combined with well-defined strategies, can transform the way companies manage their customer relationships. Below are key approaches to improving customer service using available technology. Strengthen Relationships with Customers with a Customer Relationship Management System (CRM) Customer relationship management (CRM) in systems such as Salesforce or HubSpot It allows you to centralize customer information and effectively track interactions with them. It is important to mention that the success of a CRM depends on a clear strategy of use that includes staff training and process definition for the continuous database update. This strategy not only improves the efficiency of customer service, but also facilitates the personalization of interactions, increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty. Immediate Attention with the Use of Chatbots Its chatbots, integrated into platforms such as Zendesk and Intercom, can offer immediate and omnichannel attention to customers, solving basic queries without human intervention . However, for a chatbot to be effective, it must be supported by a strategy that considers the constant analysis of interactions to improve automatic responses and know when to escalate to a human agent. This combination of automation and personalized attention ensures that the customer receives fast and efficient service without losing quality of care. Social Media Monitoring with Monitoring and Analysis Tools Social media is a crucial channel for customer service in the digital world. Tools like Hootsuite and Sprout Social They allow you to monitor brand mentions on social networks such as Instagram and respond in real time. However, to take full advantage of these tools, it is necessary to develop a network communication strategy that defines the tone of the responses, the response time and those responsible for each channel. This strategy ensures that interactions with customers are consistent and aligned with the company's values. Conclusion: Maximize the Potential of Digital Tools with Effective Strategies Adding technology to a well-planned strategy can transform the way companies operate and relate both internally and externally. However, The implementation of technologies is not without challenges that must be managed through business innovation projects that cover the different areas of the organization. In this way, we will be able to improve operational efficiency, strengthen relationships within the team and offer customer service that stands out in an increasingly competitive market. Do you want to know more? Visit our Blog: https://www.consultoriatacs.com/en/blog Ready to transform your company? Write us at: contacto@consultoriatacs.com Contact us today and find out how we can grow your business together! About Yesenia Pellegrini (Author) : Consultant at TACs Consultores, specialist in the implementation of strategic solutions and digital improvements; seeks to optimize processes and ensure the success of our clients. About Pablo Tellaeche (Editor) : Owner and main consultant of TACs Consultores, Lecturer and University Professor; seeks to bring a true and positive Culture Lean and Digital Transformation to any company with which you have the pleasure of collaborating.
- DIGITAL SYNERGY: HOW COMPANIES CAN TAKE ADVANTAGE OF TECHNOLOGY INSTEAD OF SUBJECTING TO IT
Extract Digital synergy is more than simply adopting new technological tools, it is making technology work for the company, and not the other way around. Maintaining this synergy in the long term allows companies to be competitive in an environment of constant change without losing their flexibility, eroding their culture and incurring unnecessary costs. Contents Digital Tools: Help or obstacle? What is Digital Synergy? The Relationship Between Technology and Business Digital Synergy in a Constantly Changing Environment: Staying on the Razor's Edge The Benefits of Maintaining a Long-Term Digital Synergy: Greater Competitiveness The Dangers of Submitting to Technology: Thinking It's the Only Thing That Drives Business Conclusion: Who Dominates Who? Digital Tools: Help or obstacle? In today's digital age, technology plays a fundamental role in almost all facets of a company; from internal communication to customer service, through data production and analysis, technology is present . However, there is a fine line between using technology as a tool to drive High Organization Performance and allowing it to dictate how the business operates. It is common to hear that technology is a business enabler. However, with the rapid evolution of digital tools, the cloud, artificial intelligence , and the internet of things (IoT) , many businesses are overwhelmed by the pressure to keep up with technology . This can lead to excessive investment in technological solutions that do not necessarily add real value. This reactive approach of following trends can lead to technology dictating how a company operates, which can create more problems than solutions . For example, an organization that implements an enterprise management system (ERP) without a proper assessment of its current capabilities and real needs may end up with processes that conform to technology, rather than having a technology that adapts to your processes. What is Digital Synergy? The Relationship Between Technology and Business Digital synergy refers to the balanced union between business and technology which allows it to be more efficient and competitive without losing the ability to innovate to adapt to the ever-changing circumstances of the market. This involves integrating technology into a company's processes, operations and culture to enhance its capabilities, not to replace or limit them. In essence, digital synergy consists of making technology work for the business , instead of allowing the company to work for the technology. When a company submits to technology, it loses flexibility and agility, and in many cases, ends up sacrificing its culture and values. That is why it is essential to develop a strategy that overcomes the challenges in the implementation of digital technologies . Many companies make the mistake of completely changing their workflows to adjust to a new tool or software, which can cause disorganization, disorientation, and resistance to change on the part of employees. At the time of adopting or creating business solutions and applications , potential users must be taken into account, know their needs and determine their capabilities. in order to integrate technology in a manner consistent with their work and in a manner consistent with the organizational culture. In addition to this, it is essential that collaborators understand how to use technology effectively. One of the biggest mistakes companies make when implementing technology is underestimating the importance of training. It is not enough to install a new tool . Training should not only focus on the technical use of the tool, but also on: How this integrates with existing processes, How it makes people's jobs easier, and How it drives overall performance. Digital Synergy in a Constantly Changing Environment: Staying on the Razor's Edge As in all areas of the organization, decision makers must always be willing to review and adjust their approach regularly as digital synergy is not a one-time process . Both business needs and technological capabilities are constantly evolving; The growth of the company may require greater control, and on the other hand, the technology becomes “obsolete” over time. We must carry out periodic evaluations of the tools and systems implemented to ensure that they have the appropriate capabilities to work appropriately and agilely; and in turn, carry out assessments on technological maturity to know if we are ready to take the next step in adopting new tools and systems. That is why we must adopt a constant learning mindset to be best positioned to maintain digital synergy in the long term . The Benefits of Maintaining a Long-Term Digital Synergy: Greater Competitiveness When a company achieves and maintains effective digital synergy, the benefits can be profound and long-lasting: 1. Improvement in Operational Efficiency Technology allows automate repetitive processes , which reduces the margin of human error and speeds up task execution. But when integrated correctly, these improvements not only increase speed, they optimize resources, resulting in a smoother, more efficient operation. 2. Greater Innovation A company that has found its digital synergy is not afraid to experiment with new technologies. By being aligned with your objectives, technological innovations do not feel like a disruption, but rather a natural evolution. This creates an environment that encourages creativity and proactive problem solving . 3. Improved Decision Making The access to accurate and well-organized data is one of the greatest benefits of a well-executed digital synergy. The technology allows companies to analyze large amounts of data in real time, improving the ability to make informed and strategic decisions. 4. Improvement in Customer Experience Technological advances, when integrated in a coherent way, allow companies to offer better experiences to their customers. From more agile customer service systems to optimized e-commerce platforms, a digital synergy improves customer interaction and satisfaction. The Dangers of Submitting to Technology: Thinking It's the Only Thing That Drives Business On the other hand, companies that fail to establish digital synergy and instead submit to technology face several risks: 1. Loss of Flexibility When a company adjusts to technology, instead of making it fit its processes, it loses flexibility. The changes become more complicated and expensive, since everything is conditioned by the limitations of the tools implemented. 2. Cultural Attrition Adopting technology without taking into account business culture can erode the values and principles that underpin it. This can lead to frustration among employees, decrease morale, and increase employee turnover ( silent or announced ). 3. Unnecessary Costs Adopting technology without a proper assessment of its need can lead to high costs without a clear return on investment. Companies may spend on solutions that do not provide real value or are simply not suitable for their needs. 4. Rapid Obsolescence Technology is constantly changing, and companies that implement solutions without a clear strategy run the risk of their investments quickly becoming obsolete, forcing them to reinvest in more up-to-date solutions. Conclusion: Who Dominates Who? Digital synergy is a key factor for the success of companies in the current digital environment . By integrating technology consciously, aligned with the organization's objectives and values, companies can harness its full potential without losing their identity. On the contrary, those that submit to technology run the risk of losing flexibility, efficiency and cultural cohesion. Instead of implementing the latest technology solution just because it's trendy, Companies must analyze how this technology can be integrated into their processes, improve their efficiency or expand their capabilities without losing its identity or purpose. The challenge is not simply to adopt technology, but to do so in a way that serves the company and enhances its ability to grow and adapt to the challenges of the future. In the search for digital synergy, companies must also consider the ethical aspect of their technological decisions. This includes concerns about the data privacy and integrity , artificial intelligence and the social impact of certain technologies. Organizations must be responsible in the way they use technology, ensuring that it not only improves their operations, but also respects regulations and ethical principles. Do you want to know more? Visit our Blog: https://www.consultoriatacs.com/en/blog Ready to transform your company? Write us at: contacto@consultoriatacs.com Contact us today and find out how we can grow your business together! About Pablo Tellaeche (Author) : Owner and main consultant of TACs Consultores, Lecturer and University Professor; seeks to bring a true and positive Culture Lean and Digital Transformation to any company with which you have the pleasure of collaborating.
- HOW TO MANAGE DISTRUST IN THE WORK ENVIRONMENT: STRATEGIES FOR LEADERS, EMPLOYEES AND CO-WORKERS
Extract Trust in the work environment has three approaches: (1) between the boss and his subordinate, (2) between a subordinate and his boss, and (3) between coworkers. The loss of trust slows down operations and increases costs, negatively affecting productivity and team dynamics. However, restoring that trust improves communication, strengthens team autonomy, and fosters a persevering and resilient organizational culture, which drives long-term success. Contents The Importance of Trust in the Workplace and How to Restore It 1. Distrust from Boss to Subordinate 2. Distrust of Subordinate to Boss 3. Mistrust Between Coworkers Conclusion: Building a Work Environment of Trust and Transparency The Importance of Trust in the Workplace and How to Restore It In any work environment, trust is a fundamental element that sustains relationships and makes collaboration easier . Furthermore, it is the key to generate an environment where employees feel valued and motivated , making them contribute to the collective success , allowing organizations to operate efficiently with less stress. The distrust can arise at any level and organizational area throughout its business journey , either (1) between the boss and his subordinate, (2) between a subordinate and the boss, and (3) between co-workers. When this happens, it negatively affects the dynamics of the work team and its productivity, even generating power conflicts , especially in family businesses . According to Stephen M.R. Covey in his work “The Speed of Trust”, Trust is a measurable factor that has a direct impact on a company's relationships, the speed and cost of transactions. When trust is lost, everything becomes slower and more expensive, and relationships can become strained and difficult to manage, creating toxic environments that demotivate staff and push them to quietly give up or escape from the company . Also causing communication and creativity to be hindered, in addition to processes that can be filled with bureaucracy. When trust is compromised, it not only affects interpersonally but also the financial and operational results of an organization . This causes collaborators to avoid sharing ideas or stop being proactive, making decision-making difficult and slowing down the organization's innovation process. Furthermore, leading to excessive supervision in the desire to have better control, slowing down processes. It is important to restore that trust to improve the work environment, maintain competitiveness and develop a High Performance Organization . This approach offers strategies to resolve mistrust at work, addressing relationships between leaders, employees and co-workers. Based on The Speed of Trust, These practices seek to restore trust, strengthen the team and create a more productive work environment. This is in order to recover lost trust and promote a resilient and efficient organizational culture. 1. Distrust from Boss to Subordinate Trust is the foundation of effective leadership and is responsible for maintaining healthy work relationships. Boss-subordinate distrust can arise from several sources, including: Lack of clear communication on the subordinate's expectations and objectives. Sudden changes in the subordinate's attitudes. Absence of support in critical moments. If as a leader you begin to distrust a subordinate, it is necessary to handle the situation with professionalism and respect so as not to affect the team. Covey emphasizes the importance of credibility. You must think and reflect before acting. Reflect on whether distrust is based on concrete facts or if it is just a perception. You must be objective and analyze the employee's role to avoid hasty and baseless decisions. Speak directly to the employee in a private meeting. Express your concerns clearly and respectfully, listen to what they have to say. Solutions must be sought, not blame. Transparency is a pillar of trust. Covey also highlights the importance of clarity in expectations. After the talk, it should be made clear what is expected of the employee, in their behavior and performance. Agreements could be documented. They must render accounts implementing a monitoring plan, periodic reviews so that the employee can demonstrate their ability. If the situation does not improve, we must have the character to make difficult decisions. It may be reassigning the employee or considering dismissal, always following appropriate procedures and respecting their labor and human rights. 2. Distrust of Subordinate to Boss Trust in the boss is key to employee commitment and motivation. Distrust from subordinate to boss can arise from several sources, including: Lack of coherence between actions and words, especially when there is economic benefit involved. Authoritarianism, sectarianism, favoritism and/or micromanagement. Unfair or unclear assignment of tasks. If as an employee or boss you feel that trust has been compromised, it is necessary to address the situation professionally. According to Covey, it must reflect on the causes of distrust. Know if it is related to the credibility, capacity, integrity or intention of the boss's actions in order to identify the root of the problem. The smart trust suggests that open dialogue can transform mistrust. Talk directly to your boss, explain your concerns, always being respectful, and seek to understand each other. Seek to resolve the problem to restore trust. If necessary, seek help from impartial third parties , such as Human Resources. Covey says a mediator can facilitate a productive conversation, and make it easier to manage. If you still have mistrust, a change , whether departmental or even look for new opportunities outside the company. Always keep your well-being in mind. 3. Mistrust Between Coworkers On the other hand, mistrust between co-workers weakens productivity and team cohesion . Mistrust between coworkers can arise from several sources, including: Unresolved conflicts and accumulated resentments. Unethical and/or selfish internal competition. Gossip or rumors. These issues must be addressed and resolved quickly to avoid major conflicts. As mentioned above, you must reflect to identify the cause of the problem . Covey mentions that reality must be faced. Knowing the root of the problem is the first step to solving it and having a better work environment. Once again, transparency resolves conflicts . Honest dialogue should be encouraged between colleagues affected by the problem. All parties must feel heard, in order to avoid tension and the problem growing. You can apply shared experiences . If possible, organize activities Team Building , or assign collaborative projects to affected parties. This can help overcome mistrust. Consider involving an impartial mediator in case tensions and mistrust persist. To be able to resolve the conflict clearly and objectively. It is also important to honor diversity. Covey mentions that an environment should be promoted where all the perspectives and abilities of colleagues are valued. Creating a collaborative environment, transforming mistrust into trust and mutual respect. Conclusion: Building a Work Environment of Trust and Transparency Trust is a fundamental element in any work relationship, whether between leaders and subordinates or between co-workers. Managing distrust requires a conscious approach, open communication, transparency and mutual respect. According to Stephen M.R. covey in The Speed of Trust, confidence in a skill that can be developed and strengthened. By adopting these strategies, a work environment is created where trust is continuously maintained and strengthened, this drives work productivity. A work environment based on trust: Promotes a greater autonomy in the teams. Allows more effective communication . Facilitates innovation and the adaptation to changes . Accelerate the processes of the organization . Building trust is key to: build a resilient organizational culture. Face future challenges successfully. In short, trust: It is the base of one healthy organization that is prosperous. Its construction and maintenance improves the work environment. It strengthens the company's ability to achieve its long term goals . Do you want to know more? Visit our Blog: https://www.consultoriatacs.com/en/blog Ready to transform your company? Write us at: contacto@consultoriatacs.com Contact us today and find out how we can grow your business together! About Yesenia Pellegrini (Author) : Consultant at TACs Consultores, specialist in the implementation of strategic solutions and digital improvements; seeks to optimize processes and ensure the success of our clients. About Pablo Tellaeche (Editor) : Owner and main consultant of TACs Consultores, Lecturer and University Professor; seeks to bring a true and positive Culture Lean and Digital Transformation to any company with which you have the pleasure of collaborating.
- CHALLENGES IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AND THEIR SOLUTIONS
Extract The adoption of new technologies is often accompanied by a series of complex and interrelated challenges such as: (1) slow implementations, (2) resistance to change, (3) the complexity of systems, (4) lack of employee adoption, (5) high costs, and (6) cybersecurity risks. However, overcoming them opens the door to optimizing operations, automating processes, reducing costs, and obtaining a competitive advantage that will drive the sustained success of your organization. Contents Overcoming Challenges in the Implementation of Digital Technologies 1. Defining a Clear Vision: Key to Overcoming Slowness in the Implementation of New Technologies 2. Creating Real Consensus: Key to Overcoming Resistance to Change 3. Developing Technological Skills: Key to Overcoming System Complexity 4. Generating Healthy Incentives: Key to Overcoming Lack of Adoption by Employees 5. Reserving Necessary Resources: Key to Overcoming High Costs and Unpredictable Budgets 6. Performing Appropriate Tactics: Key to Mitigating Cyber Security Risks Conclusion: Applying the Recipe for a Digital Transformation Success Story Overcoming Challenges in the Implementation of Digital Technologies Currently, The implementation of digital technologies and tools has become an unavoidable necessity for companies who seek to remain competitive in their industry. However, it is a reality that the majority of these changes in the ways organizations act require a radical change in the ways organizations think about the management, administration and operation of businesses. To manage these transformations appropriately, we must first know and understand the “ Recipe for a Digital Transformation Success Story ” based on the Lippitt-Knoster model for managing complex changes, which includes the following ingredients: Vision: Understanding what we seek to achieve with technology , have a clear and defined vision of the objectives and goals that you want to achieve through digitalization. Consent: Lining up all members of the organization with the vision and objectives of the Transformation , create a sense of unity and shared commitment to ensure a coherent, consistent and successful implementation. Skills: Knowing how to apply the wide variety of technologies available on the market , continually training and developing skills to adapt to new tools and technological platforms. Incentives: Wanting to do things differently than they have always been done , encourage an innovation culture and be willing to continually change and improve. Resources: Dedicating time, money and effort to transform the business , have the temporal, financial and human resources necessary to carry out the Digital Transformation. Tactics: Making things happen , implementing concrete and measurable action plans to ensure that vision, consensus, skills, incentives and resources translate into tangible results. These six ingredients are essential to carry out a true, positive and successful digital transformation . If any are missing, the change will be very difficult (or impossible) to manage because it will cause negative reactions in the teams that make the process considerably difficult... Without vision, there will be confusion and “emergencies” . Without consensus, there will be sabotage and power games . Without skills, there will be anxiety. Without incentives, there will be apathy and resignations ( silent or announced ). Without resources, there will be frustration. Without tactics, there will be paralysis. By following the recipe step by step we can overcome common challenges in the implementation of digital technologies. 1. Defining a Clear Vision: Key to Overcoming Slowness in the Implementation of New Technologies The creation and integration of new technologies with existing systems and processes can be a slow and complicated process, especially if you do not have a clear vision of what you want to achieve , since it causes a wave of changes and adjustments that ends up impacting the times and quality of technological development. Before any implementation, an exhaustive evaluation of the conceptual, procedural and attitudinal aspects must be carried out that influence the performance of the organization in order to detect areas of opportunity that can be addressed with the adoption and adaptation of compatible and interoperable technologies. Some key strategies to develop this overview are: Develop a Comprehensive Process Mapping to view the workflow. Identify Redundancies and Inefficiencies , as well as repetitive and manual tasks, which can be automated. Establish a SMART Strategy to achieve transformation. Study the Market and Competition Movements to identify emerging trends that can be taken advantage of by the organization. Define Tools and Systems to develop and/or implement. By clearly defining what we seek to achieve, we create the foundation for successful development that will be adjusted depending on the results obtained . 2. Creating Real Consensus: Key to Overcoming Resistance to Change Resistance to change is a natural aspect of the human being, since this involves breaking paradigms, modifying routines and learning new skills ; which can make managers and/or collaborators feel uncomfortable or fearful. That is why from the beginning we must approach the implementation of new technologies in a structured, systematic and transparent way. Preventing the natural resistance of the human being to change, from becoming a resistance directed towards the change that is sought to be achieved , requires that we raise awareness throughout the organization about the costs and benefits, as well as the potential risks , of new technology on the results of the organization, and also, encourage all collaborators to express their feelings and propose new ideas and approaches that can add to the change. Some strategies to generate consensus are: Identify Leaders (Formal and Informal) within the organization. Choose "Champions" that motivate and help other collaborators to adapt to new tools and technologies. Raise Awareness About Costs, Benefits and Risks of new technology on the results of the organization. Receive Feedback about the proposed change. Answer Questions and Address Concerns directly. Provide Resources and Support Materials that facilitate the transition. To maintain organizational consensus and alignment, it is necessary to maintain continuous communication about progress, successes and mistakes when putting change into practice in a transparent way. 3. Developing Technological Skills: Key to Overcoming System Complexity One of the most significant challenges when implementing new digital technologies is their rapid evolution that requires specialized skills that may be scarce within an organization . The systems, often complicated and unintuitive for beginners, can result in low productivity and frustration among users. That is why you must ensure that users receive the necessary training to use new technologies effectively . Providing supporting resources such as guides, tutorials, and technical assistance are essential to moving from development to deployment. Also, when in the system evaluation and selection process, you must first choose: Only Choose Tools That Integrate Well with existing systems. Prioritize User Experience (UX) con interfaces Simple user interfaces (UI) and functionalities that do not require extensive knowledge of the system. Try Before You Buy to evaluate whether the solution is easy to use and fits the needs of the organization. Collect Comments and Opinions about the ease of use and usefulness of the tools. 4. Generating Healthy Incentives: Key to Overcoming Lack of Adoption by Employees Certainly the adoption of digital tools finds its greatest challenge in complete and true adoption by the team. Many times the implementation of new technologies is developed in parallel to normal operation , thus two systems are fed (the old and the new, the manual and the automatic, or the physical and the digital) in order to ensure the integrity of the information while all the functionalities of the new systems are developed. . The problem often arises when you have to “let go” of the old system and only use the new system since the team may have fears and insecurities about its correct functioning , especially if the development phase was mired in problems. This must be addressed with a gradual integration strategy that includes: A Phased Implementation that allows continuous adjustments and improvements without interrupting daily operations. Perform Pilot Tests to evaluate the effectiveness of new technology before large-scale implementation, as well as analyze and resolve problems that may affect the organization's performance. Form Multidisciplinary Teams to ensure that all perspectives are considered and implementation is smoother. In turn, active participation throughout the process must be recognized and rewarded to keep team spirit high and encourage their active involvement in business transformation and enriching a culture of innovation. 5. Reserving Necessary Resources: Key to Overcoming High Costs and Unpredictable Budgets Implementing digital technologies often involves significant investment in hardware, software, infrastructure and training. For micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), these costs can be prohibitive and difficult to predict . To manage costs, companies must opt for scalable solutions that fit the organization's changing budgets and needs. Additionally, return on investment (ROI) should be carefully evaluated and technology implementations with the greatest potential impact on the business should be prioritized. organization performance ; To alleviate the financial burden, companies can: Take Advantage of Subscription Payment Models only for the services that will be used. Investigate Government Subsidies and Aid for the digitalization of companies. Establish Long-Term Relationships with Suppliers in which the company plays the role of validation (also known as “test subject”) of the system to obtain better prices and conditions. 6. Performing Appropriate Tactics: Key to Mitigating Cyber Security Risks A reality that is often omitted is that the adoption of new technologies increases the attack surface and can expose companies to cyber threats such as ransomware, phishing and data breaches. Thus, one of the most common information leak gaps are cloud tools that allow us to collaborate simultaneously and fluidly. Companies must develop and implement a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy that includes: Implementing Basic Security Measures such as firewalls, antivirus software and data encryption. Training Everyone on Good Safety Practices how to identify phishing emails, create strong passwords, and handle sensitive information appropriately. Conducting Periodic Security Audits to identify and correct vulnerabilities in systems. Conclusion: Applying the Recipe for a Digital Transformation Success Story By… Defining a Clear Vision , sharing why Digital Transformation is necessary and how it will be carried out. Creating Real Consensus , involving people from across the organization to gather feedback and align their views with the strategy. Developing Technological Skills , identifying areas of opportunity, providing the necessary training and improving internal skills or attracting external ones with the right skills. Generating Healthy Incentives , understanding what motivates people and creating the appropriate mechanisms for intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Reserving Necessary Resources , obtaining the necessary tools, technologies and other resources. Performing Appropriate Tactics , developing a high-level roadmap and detailed action plan that outlines the priorities, order, and steps to safely make the change. …organizations can successfully navigate the digital era and ensure their long-term growth and competitiveness. You want to know more? Visit our Blog: https://www.consultoriatacs.com/en/blog Ready to transform your company? Write us at: contacto@consultoriatacs.com Contact us today and find out how we can grow your business together! About Pablo Tellaeche (Author) : Owner and main consultant of TACs Consultores, Lecturer and University Professor; seeks to bring a true and positive Culture Lean and Digital Transformation to any company with which you have the pleasure of collaborating.
- DIGITAL TOOLS THAT EVERY COMPANY SHOULD HAVE
Extract Digital tools are essential for any business that wants to improve its operational efficiency and competitiveness in the market. By implementing (1) a search engine optimized website, (2) digital marketing and communication tools, (3) business management tools, (4) communication, collaboration and project management platforms, and (5) services With security and data protection, companies can reduce their risks, improve their productivity and customer service, and maintain a competitive advantage in the market. Contents Implementation of Digital Tools 1. Search Engine Optimized Website: The Digital Cover Letter A Base: Have an Attractive and Useful Website The Ideal: SEO and SEM Optimization 2. Marketing and Digital Communication Tools: Axis of a Digital Commercial Strategy A Base: Social Networks and Advertising Guidelines The Ideal: Integration with CRM software 3. Business Management Tools: Axis of Business Operation A Base: The effective use of Office automation The Ideal: Integration and Operations Management with ERP software 4. Communication, Collaboration and Project Management Platforms: Efficient Teamwork A Base: The use of Cloud Workspaces The Ideal: A Common Data Environment 5. Security and Data Protection Services: Preparation for the Unexpected A Base: Antivirus and Firewalls The Ideal: Backups for Business Continuity Conclusion: Promoting Innovation and Transformation in Companies Implementation of Digital Tools In today's business world, where technology advances at giant steps , it is essential that both growing and established businesses adopt digital tools that optimize their operations, improve their competitiveness and provide better service to their customers. 1. Search Engine Optimized Website: The Digital Cover Letter A Base: Have an Attractive and Useful Website The website is the digital presentation letter of any company . It is the first point of contact with potential clients and, in many cases, the first impression they will have of the business. That is why special emphasis must be placed on its development and optimization to be visually pleasant, useful and relevant to the audience it seeks to serve. Having a clean and professional design that includes dynamic elements such as animations, videos, images, and texts helps capture the user's attention. At the same time, you should ensure that navigation is easy and clear by using drop-down menus and well-organized links. All this, added to clear and visible calls to action that include testimonials, reviews and success stories, results in a better user experience and conversion rate. The Ideal: SEO and SEM Optimization Search engine optimization (SEO) and search engine marketing (SEM) is crucial for the website to appear in the first search results of Google and other search engines. A good SEO configuration increases website positioning , attracting more organic (unpaid) traffic and, potentially, more customers; but it requires a lot of time and effort to do it properly. A good SEM strategy increases website visibility , attracting more paid traffic, which can boost sales but also costs if not managed properly. Among its key components are: Identify and use relevant keywords that potential customers use to search for products or services similar to those of the company. Create and publish useful, informative and original content that positions the company as a leader in its sector, builds trust and credibility. Some valuable content to consider are: blogs, articles, guides, tutorials, videos and other multimedia. Have a clear technical structure that uses HTML tags correctly (such as titles, descriptions, and headers) and ensures that the site is fast and mobile-friendly. Collaborate with other relevant websites and earn links ( backlinks ) that will drive traffic and give greater authority to the site. At the same time, a website that is regularly updated with new content shows that the company is active and committed to providing current and relevant information to its visitors, and that the business is constantly evolving . 2. Marketing and Digital Communication Tools: Axis of a Digital Commercial Strategy A Base: Social Networks and Advertising Guidelines Social networks are powerful platforms for establishing, growing and maintaining strong customer relationships , reaching new markets, building brand awareness and promoting products or services. By using advertising guidelines, companies can reach their target audience effectively and measure the impact of their commercial actions (campaigns). When using social networks you must have a clear and measurable communication objective (increase followers, improve the engagement , trigger leads , etc.), with balanced content planning (informational, promotional, interactive, etc.) that adapts to the interests, needs and behaviors of the audience we seek to attract to our business . The Ideal: Integration with CRM software The great variety of channels found in the market often makes their management difficult; This is why CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software is crucial for centralizing all customer information from prospecting to post-sales in one place . Some key features are: Automation in sending emails, scheduling social media posts, and managing customer interactions. Segmentation to offer a more personalized and consistent experience, which can increase customer satisfaction and loyalty. Analysis of data to measure performance and optimize commercial strategies. These tools have the ultimate goal of increasing sales by helping to convert more prospects into customers by optimizing communication and tracking potential customers. 3. Business Management Tools: Axis of Business Operation A Base: The effective use of Office Software Business management tools are essential for coordinating and optimizing the various functions and processes within a company. Its bases go back to office software that are used by all companies and industries to streamline your daily tasks by creating, editing and managing documents, spreadsheets, presentations and emails. To use office software effectively, you should organize information in orderly folders and use descriptive and consistent names to facilitate search and identification. At the same time, implementing predefined templates for documents, spreadsheets, presentations and emails saves time and maintains a consistent format. The Ideal: Integration and Operations Management with ERP software ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) is a comprehensive solution that unifies multiple business functions on a single platform. This includes the finance management, human resources, sales, purchasing, production, inventories and more to achieve: Integration of All Company Data in a single system that facilitates access, accuracy and management of information. Automation of Repetitive Processes to reduce the need for manual data entry, saving time and minimizing errors. Decision Making Based on Accurate Data updated in real time that provide a clear view of the financial, commercial and operational health of the company. Maintain an optimal balance between supply and demand and reduce storage costs and avoid shortages or excess stock. The adoption or creation of enterprise applications that cover the diverse needs of the business within the Technological Architecture of a company must allow (1) Real-Time Collaboration, (2) Access from Anywhere, (3) Security and Data Recovery, and (4) Integration with Other Tools to achieve more efficient management, reduce errors and improve decision making based on accurate and real-time data . 4. Communication, Collaboration and Project Management Platforms: Efficient Teamwork A Base: The use of Cloud Workspaces With the growing trend towards remote work and teams distributed in different geographical locations, platforms and communication channels have been created that seek to maintain constant and fluid interaction between team members to plan, track and manage tasks and projects effectively. Platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, Trello, Asana, among others, are interconnected with cloud storage and collaboration tools like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace so teams can work together on projects from anywhere, anytime. The Ideal: A Common Data Environment Common data environments are frameworks or infrastructures that facilitate the storage, access, analysis and management of data in organizations. These environments integrate various technologies and tools to allow efficient management of large volumes of data , guaranteeing the security, integrity and availability of information. This for: Facilitate the coordination and execution of tasks , reducing time wasted in inefficient communications and management. Ensure everyone is on the same page , reducing misunderstandings and improving collaboration. Facilitate the risk identification and problem resolution before they become major obstacles. Creating common data environments to connect Relational Databases (RDBMS), Data Warehouses, Big Data Environments, Cloud Computing and Cloud Computing Platforms, ETL Tools, and more are fundamental to maintain team efficiency and cohesion in highly technologically mature environments . 5. Security and Data Protection Services: Preparation for the Unexpected A Base: Antivirus and Firewalls The security of the information is a priority for any company regardless of its size or sector. Protecting sensitive data and ensuring business continuity is essential to avoid financial loss, reputational damage, and legal issues. Security and data protection solutions provide the tools necessary to safeguard information and ensure the integrity of business systems. Antivirus and firewalls are the first line of defense against cyber threats such as malware, viruses, ransomware and phishing attacks . Programs like Norton, McAfee, Kaspersky, and others detect, prevent, and remove threats before they can cause harm. The Ideal: Backups for Business Continuity Data backup and recovery tools ensure that critical information is protected from accidental loss, system failures, and cyber attacks . What we are looking for with these solutions is to restore data quickly, minimize downtime and ensure business continuity through various backup strategies: Keep at least three copies of your data , on two different media, with one copy stored off-site. Use cloud storage services for off-site backups. Examples include Amazon S3, Google Cloud Storage, and Microsoft Azure. Maintain backup copies on servers local or external storage devices. The ideal is to set regular dates and times for backups (full, incremental and differential), preferably during off-peak hours to minimize the impact on system performance. And in turn, perform periodic restoration tests to ensure that backups are functional and can be recovered correctly. Conclusion: Promoting Innovation and Transformation in Companies Implementing these digital tools not only optimizes company operations, but also improves customer experience, increases efficiency and protects the business's most valuable assets . Regardless of whether it is a growing or consolidated business, these technologies are essential to maintain a competitive advantage in today's market. Adopting these solutions is a critical step towards digital transformation and long-term sustainable success. . You want to know more? Visit our Blog: https://www.consultoriatacs.com/en/blog Ready to transform your company? Write us at: contacto@consultoriatacs.com Contact us today and find out how we can grow your business together! About Pablo Tellaeche (Author) : Owner and main consultant of TACs Consultores, Lecturer and University Professor; seeks to bring a true and positive Culture Lean and Digital Transformation to any company with which you have the pleasure of collaborating.
- PROBLEM ANALYSIS AND SOLUTION DEVELOPMENT
Extract When facing the receipt of negative comments from a client or collaborator, the sanction by a regulatory body (government), the observations of an internal audit exercise, the failure to meet objectives and goals, among other business problems, we must Have a systematic approach to go deeper and resolve root problems. Contents Solving Business Problems 1. Identify the Problem: “Houston, We Have a Problem” 2. Analyze the Problem: Identify the Root Cause Example of Categories in an Ishikawa Diagram Example of Application of the 5 Whys 3. Generate Potential Solutions: See the “How to do” 4. Implement Potential Solutions: Let's Take Action 5. Evaluate the Problem Solution: Measure the Change Conclusion: Fostering Continuous Improvement Solving Business Problems In today's dynamic business world, undesirable situations arise that restrict and hinder the achievement of High Performance in the organization , which has an impact on the results we expect in our businesses. That is why the ability to analyze and solve problems in an efficient, effective and timely manner is crucial for the sustainability of companies . In this sense, Continuous Improvement ( Kaizen , in Japanese) based on Lean thinking emerges as a method to solve a problem, analyze its causes and generate actions that prevent it from happening again . In this systematic approach, all members of the organization participate as a multidisciplinary team in problem solving, constantly looking for ways to eliminate waste, reduce variation and improve workflow; as well as avoid: Accidents that put the safety of collaborators at risk. Defects in quality and the application of guarantees. Cost overruns due to lack of good management. Differences in production times. 1. Identify the Problem: “Houston, We Have a Problem” When any unfavorable situation arises, such as power conflicts (specially in family businesses ), containment actions focused on preventing this from continuing must be devised, implemented and consulted. If there is a high probability that it will occur again and/or become greater, it should be clearly defined what the problem is and its effects and impacts to have a notion of its scope and implications. To do this you must: Pose the problem in terms of a “Current State”. What's going on? Define the “Desired state.” What would we like? Identify the “Difference” between these states. How much do we need? This works so that all people involved in the problem have the same vision about (1) what the specific problem is, (2) how and when it manifested, (3) who is involved or affected, and (4) what impact it has on the business. Subsequently, it must gather quantitative, qualitative and relevant testimonial information to determine whether the problem is under our control/influence or not, and establish, if they exist, the benefits of solving it as a team. 2. Analyze the Problem: Identify the Root Cause Once you have a complete and shared description of the problem, you can use a cause-effect diagram ( Ishikawa ) to achieve an expansion/divergence and identify, explore and graphically represent all possible causes of a specific problem. The structure of this diagram helps organize the possible causes of a problem into categories. Example of Categories in an Ishikawa Diagram People : Human factors, skills, training and motivation. For example: Lack of adequate training. Lack of experience of the team. Lack of human resources. Lack of supervision. Bad communication. Human errors. Methods : Procedures, processes and policies. For example: Lack of process documentation. Slow approval processes. Lack of milestone tracking. Inadequate instructions. Obsolete procedures. Inadequate planning. Machines : Tools, equipment and technology. For example: Inadequate maintenance. Problems with the software. Incorrect configuration. Lack of hardware. Obsolete equipment. Slow teams. Materials : Raw materials and supplies. For example: Inputs not delivered on time. Poor quality of materials. Low quality raw materials. Lack of inventory control. Unreliable suppliers. Lack of stock. Environment : Environmental conditions and the organizational culture itself. For example: Frequent changes in project priorities. Unfavorable working conditions. Unstable working conditions. Tense organizational climate. Lighting problems. Noises or distractions. Measurement : Data, analysis and inspections. For example: Lack of adequate measurement tools. Inadequate inspection procedures. Poorly defined performance indicators. Errors in data collection. Inaccurate progress reports. Lack of constant monitoring. Subsequently, the individual causes are selected and the “5 whys” technique is used to achieve contraction/convergence and identify the root causes of the problem . The technique is to ask "Why?" repeatedly (usually five times) to go beyond the surface symptoms of the problem and get to the underlying cause. Example of Application of the 5 Whys One of the most common problems in organizations is that “The project was not delivered on time.” This problem, generally attributed to poor project closure management, must be analyzed to determine its root cause: Why was the project not delivered on time? Because the final tasks were not completed on time. Why were the final tasks not completed on time? Because there were delays in the previous stages of the project. Why were there delays in earlier stages of the project? Because the project requirements were not correctly identified at the beginning. Why were the project requirements not correctly identified at the beginning? Because there was no proper initial meeting with the client. Why wasn't there a proper initial meeting with the client? Because there was no established process for organizing initial meetings with clients. Thus, the lack of an established process to organize initial meetings with clients results in late delivery and that at the same time establish a clear process and mandatory to organize detailed initial meetings with clients at the beginning of each project can solve the root of the problem. 3. Generate Potential Solutions: See the “How to do” To generate potential solutions, a “brainstorming” exercise must be carried out where those involved in the problem are brought together and allowed to share your ideas freely, without judging or discarding any proposal . Having several possible preventive and corrective solutions on the table, these must be evaluated and classified according to their Implementation Feasibility (Easy or Difficult) and Impact (High or Low) in times and costs to determine: Strategic Actions (easy implementation and high impact) that must be executed in less than 1 week. Transformation Actions (difficult implementation and high impact) that must be executed in less than 1 month. Optimization Actions (easy implementation and low impact) that must be executed in less than 1 month. Challenge Actions (difficult implementation and low impact) that must be executed in less than 2 months. 4. Implement Potential Solutions: Let's Take Action Based on the list of actions devised, must develop a detailed action plan to implement the chosen solution. This plan must include: Clear and specific objectives. Detailed steps for implementation. Assignment of responsibilities. Schedule with deadlines. Necessary resources. And must be accompanied by a backlog to closely monitor the execution of solutions, generate responsibility, give sense of urgency and monitor the effectiveness of the solution. It is important to have meetings regularly, at least once a week, to check the progress of activities, notify changes, update the work plan and maintain team alignment. 5. Evaluate the Problem Solution: Measure the Change During implementation, the effectiveness of the proposed solution must be constantly evaluated, at least once a month, in terms of: Less exposure, probability and severity of accidents. Customer satisfaction with the product or service. Savings generated. Recovery or optimization of times. And with this answer the questions: Has the problem been resolved? What has worked well and what hasn't? What learnings can be extracted? With this, we can conclude the improvement action, share lessons learned and prepare a closing report that allows us to communicate to the rest of the organization the benefits and contributions of the Problem Analysis and Solution process. Conclusion: Fostering Continuous Improvement Problem Analysis and Solution is an iterative process. Even after solving a problem, there are always new opportunities to improve. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement based on Lean thinking, where constant feedback and the search for new ways to optimize processes and solve problems more efficiently are promoted, Companies can turn even the biggest obstacles into stepping stones to business success . We hope this guide provides you with a helpful framework for addressing the issues you face on your path. Do you have any techniques or personal experiences that have helped you solve problems? Share your stories and tips in the comments! You want to know more? Visit our Blog: https://www.consultoriatacs.com/en/blog Ready to transform your company? Write us at: contacto@consultoriatacs.com Contact us today and find out how we can grow your business together! About Pablo Tellaeche (Author) : Owner and main consultant of TACs Consultores, Lecturer and University Professor; seeks to bring a true and positive Culture Lean and Digital Transformation to any company with which you have the pleasure of collaborating.
- BUSINESS INNOVATION MANAGEMENT
Extract Business innovation management is not just about generating new ideas, but about implementing these ideas effectively to create value. This requires creating an environment conducive to innovation, supported by strong leadership, effective knowledge management and a customer-centric approach. Contents What is Business Innovation? Types of Business Innovation Challenges in Innovation Management Cultural Challenges Business Challenges Legal Challenges Financial Challenges Technical Challenges Best Practices in Innovation Management Clear, Well-Defined Planning, Achievable and Understood by All with the Definition of a Clear Route Leadership that Integrates the Parties Towards the Achievement of Results with the Alignment of the Short, Medium and Long Term Sufficient Financial, Human, Material and Technical Resources to Develop and Implement Innovation Coordination of Teams for a Release of Restrictions that allows Things to Happen Conclusion: Leadership and Coordination Excellence What is Business Innovation? Creativity and innovation are essential qualities for the survival and growth of any business. To the implement changes and improvements In their business models, organizational structures and processes with which they operate, companies transform the products and services they offer to create additional value and remain competitive in a market that demands: Use of technology to improve efficiency and productivity. Differentiation from your competitors and a unique offering. Adaptability in the face of new trends and changes. Types of Business Innovation Business innovation can manifest itself in various ways and in different areas within an organization, some ways to see it are: Business Model Innovation by redefining the way a company creates, delivers and/or captures value . Organizational Innovation by transforming the organizational structure, changing the organizational culture or improving business management methods . Process Innovation by implementing more efficient and effective methods of production and/or delivery. Product or Service Innovation by developing new offerings or improving existing ones to better meet customer needs. Challenges in Innovation Management Managing business innovation projects often face a high degree of uncertainty and risk , which requires specialized approaches and tools to address a number of challenges in various areas that can hinder progress if not managed properly. Cultural Challenges Related to the ways in which people operate . These can be addressed through open communication and a participatory approach that includes appropriate training and incentives. Resistance to change due to comfort with the status quo or fear of the unknown. Stagnant Organizational Cultures that do not value or encourage creativity and innovation. Rigid Organizational Structures that make it difficult to make quick decisions and implement new ideas. Business Challenges Related to the ways in which the company interacts with its environment . These can be addressed with clear differentiation, creating partnerships and mechanisms to stay on top of trends and changing customer needs. Unfair Competition that hinders the introduction and success of innovations in the market. Changes in Expectations and Preferences of the target market. Legal Challenges Related to compliance with regulatory bodies . These can be addressed through good advice and constant vigilance in the face of changes in regulation and government. Variations in Regulation between different regions and sectors that complicate the development and implementation of innovations. Intellectual property which can be complicated and expensive. Financial Challenges Related to obtaining resources for research and development (R&D) . They can be addressed by seeking risk capital and sound resource management. Lack of Financing for innovation projects , especially in the early stages. Cost Management with high levels of uncertainty. Technical Challenges Related to methods for developing and implementing new innovations . They can be addressed through feasibility studies that allow planning and seeking options to achieve the desired transformation. Lack of Specialized Talent that can carry out the projects. Total Integration which can be complicated and expensive. The different combinations of these aspects often make it difficult to obtain the expected value and can lead to waste and losses, variations between similar projects and stoppages that hinder efficient workflow, leading to late deliveries, cost overruns, “gray zones” and “ “hidden vices” that obstruct the growth of organizations . To address this situation, new ways of thinking and acting must be implemented. Best Practices in Innovation Management Effective management of innovation projects requires an integrated approach that addresses cultural, strategic, operational and technical aspects. Clear, Well-Defined Planning, Achievable and Understood by All with the Definition of a Clear Route The main objective of planning is fostering synergy between processes , responding: What comes next? … To formulate the answer, each project requires an analysis based on its specific needs and the capabilities of the companies and people involved in its execution, considering variables such as the necessary progress, the expected cost and the economic flow available to execute it. This will determine the “rhythm” of the project, which must be as accurate and balanced as possible, seeking not to fall into extremes and to be able to adequately satisfy the needs of the project: Excessive saving can lead to waiting times and mental overload , resulting in fatigue, equipment wear and tear, and safety risks that can end in incidents and accidents that leave tasks unfinished. Disproportionate increase produces productivity spikes that must be properly managed to avoid incurring cost overruns and loss of administrative control at the workplace. If the parts of the project move at different speeds, blockages, delays, stoppages and bottlenecks are generated that must be resolved to achieve the start, continuity and/or closure of the activities, ultimately seeking to prevent work from waiting for workers and workers from waiting for work . Open and transparent communication between all stakeholders is key to ensuring that everyone is aligned and committed to the project objectives and an efficient and effective teamwork . Leadership that Integrates the Parties Towards the Achievement of Results with the Alignment of the Short, Medium and Long Term Effective leadership is essential to integrate all parties involved in the project and ensure they work towards a common goal . It is crucial to establish an effective order of command and maintain strict congruence in the order of command to direct efforts towards achieving short, medium and long-term results of the project. Leaders must apply different leadership styles according to the needs of employees , from directing and closely supervising to delegating responsibilities when you have the necessary maturity. Leaders must inspire trust, foster collaboration, and proactively resolve conflict to maintain team momentum and motivation throughout the project. Sufficient Financial, Human, Material and Technical Resources to Develop and Implement Innovation Obtaining and managing adequate resources is essential to the success of the project. From sufficient financing to the recruitment and retention of trained personnel, through the efficient management of materials and the adoption of appropriate technologies, each aspect is crucial for the development and control of the innovation process. Obtaining financial resources Through financing and capitalization sources and mechanisms, they are key to maintaining liquidity and guaranteeing the cash flow required to support the innovation process. The recruitment, selection and retention of human resources It is key to achieving the project objectives that require trained, capable and willing personnel. The care and use of material resources , especially the logistics of materials and machinery logistics. The adoption and application of technical resources according to the level of technical maturity of those involved. A company that has operated in Excel all its life will encounter difficulties when joining projects with increasingly higher technical requirements. It is important to develop a detailed execution plan and closely monitor resource use to avoid budget deviations or material shortages that could affect project progress. Coordination of Teams for a Release of Restrictions that allows Things to Happen Coordination between teams seeks to ensure smooth flow of project execution of innovation. This involves constant communication between all teams involved, quick resolution of issues, and removal of constraints that may hinder project progress. To achieve this, use is made of three key elements which seek to facilitate the visualization of the status of the projects, as well as the identification and analysis of deviations that may occur during execution: Visual Management with the use of Kanban Boards that will allow us to transmit information in a clear, orderly and updated manner. Establishing effective Events with meetings of standard duration with clear and disseminated objectives that are carried out periodically and are transcendent. A Management by Results where indicators are measured that help us identify areas of opportunity to anticipate and/or correct course. In turn, risk management and security due to the various processes involved in the transformation process are essential to ensure the continuity of the processes that lead to good results. Conclusion: Leadership and Coordination Excellence By adopting best practices, maintaining high quality standards and efficiently managing all aspects of creativity and innovation, it is possible to achieve success in an increasingly competitive market . With a clear vision, meticulous planning and a commitment to excellence, business leaders can develop and implement innovation projects that are not only financially successful, but also impactful and lasting over time . Want to know more? Visit our Blog: https://www.consultoriatacs.com/en/blog Ready to transform your company? Write to us at: contacto@consultoriatacs.com Contact us today and find out how we can grow your business together! About Pablo Tellaeche (Author) : Owner and main consultant of TACs Consultores, Speaker and University Professor; seeks to bring a true and positive Lean Culture and Digital Transformation to every company with which he has the pleasure of collaborating.
- PROGRAMMING SKILLS DEVELOPMENT
Extract Developing programming skills is essential in today's digital age. Learning to program involves understanding programming logic, systematically solving problems, and persisting through challenges. Regular practice and participation in projects are key to improvement, as is access to online resources such as tutorials and communities of practice where you can find feedback. Contents Individual Empowerment and Increased Labor Competitiveness Development of Systematic and Logical Thinking: Fundamentals of Programming Hands on the Computer: First Steps in Programming Good Programming Practices: Cleanliness, Efficiency and Ease Conclusion: Solid Professional Development in the Field of Programming Individual Empowerment and Increased Labor Competitiveness In the digital age we live in, programming has become a fundamental transversal skill that drives the functioning of almost all industries and aspects of our daily lives and is soon becoming as important a basic skill as reading and writing in the workplace. Programming is the means that allows people to give instructions to a computer to perform specific tasks. This is achieved by using programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, JavaScript, Ruby, among others, and defining sequences of logical instructions that the computer can understand and execute. The importance of having programming skills in today's world lies in several key factors, the most notable being: Gives people and companies the ability to create their own tools that automate repetitive tasks. Allows the creation of new products, services and technological solutions that improve our lives and transform entire industries. It can make all the difference in setting yourself apart as companies actively seek professionals with these skills. Its application allows you to identify and solve problems in a systematic and logical way, as well as encourage critical thinking. Its real-world application and use are virtually limitless and continue to expand as we move toward an increasingly digitalized society. As our dependence on technology continues to grow, the importance of programming will only continue to increase in the years to come. Therefore, learning to program is not only beneficial, but also essential to thriving in today's society and in the future. Development of Systematic and Logical Thinking: Fundamentals of Programming The path to learning to program and developing code from scratch can be quite challenging. Even for those with a strong academic background or extensive experience in their field, it can take time to gain the expertise needed to develop useful solutions. However, this should not demotivate the beginner in programming, but rather make him aware of the importance of forming a good foundation for the success of your projects. The first step to developing programming skills is not on the computer, but in our own mind. Consists in developing systematic and logical thinking skills, or computational reasoning. Although this may seem unnecessary, everyone can benefit from doing exercises to further develop the ability for systematic and logical thinking. Some of them include: Play chess or solve puzzles to develop logical thinking and analysis skills to anticipate future moves. Practice identifying patterns and sequences into a series of numbers, letters or figures to develop analysis skills. Practice deductive and inductive reasoning solving puzzles and logic problems. Identify a problem and find its root cause asking yourself the why of the situation 5 times to find the best solutions using logic. Perform Truth Table exercises that involve logical operations such as AND, OR and NOT to understand how they work in different contexts. Practice reading and creating flowcharts to describe processes or solve specific problems in a systematic and logical manner. Perform team problem-solving activities to develop communication, empathy and collaboration skills. The development of reasoning is a continuous process that requires practice and patience. However, its strengthening is what lays the foundation for not only programming efficiently, but also in efficient and effective planning in all areas of life. Hands on the Computer: First Steps in Programming The learning curve in programming can vary from one person to another depending on your level of computational reasoning, but in general, it follows a similar pattern for most beginners with the following steps: Learn the basics of programming, such as variables (integers, floats, text strings, booleans, among others), data types (structured and unstructured, control structures (loops and conditionals), functions and classes. Choose a programming language of interest depending on what you would like to start developing, such as Visual Basic (for automating tasks in Microsoft Office and developing specific applications for Windows), Python (for analyzing data and web development), JavaScript (for web development and designing applications), among others . Get trained with tutorials, courses and official documentation to learn the use of selected language, best practices and delve into specific industry topics. Install an Integrated Development Environment(IDE) o a Text Editor that helps you write code efficiently by highlighting syntax errors, doing code auto-completion and debugging like Visual Studio Code, Atom and Sublime Text. Start with a simple program that prints a message on the screen or perform basic calculations to understand the syntax of the language. Develop personal projects where you solve algorithm and data structure problems to apply what you have learned in a practical context. Join programming communities such as GitHub and Stack Overflow to share knowledge, ask questions, receive feedback on code, and participate in independent projects. Study and analyze the code of other programmers to learn new techniques and approaches. Practice regularly to improve optimization and speed in programming. Maintain a repository with useful functions and scripts that can be used for all kinds of projects such as transferring information from one document to another, printing and/or sending an email automatically, updating online forms and data in real time, among others. Programming is a vast and constantly evolving field, so there is always something new to learn. Exploring new concepts, techniques and technologies, as well as learning from mistakes and receiving feedback are key to expanding the knowledge and skills necessary to stay competitive in this exponentially growing field that allows people and companies to scale their operations and automate their processes independently. Good Programming Practices: Cleanliness, Efficiency and Ease As projects grow in size and complexity, the need arises to implement standard practices, protocols and processes that allow all parties (including the future you) to understand, debug, maintain and scale programs effectively and efficiently. These measures include: Use friendly names for variables, functions, and classes that reflect their purpose or function in the code. Prioritize clarity and simplicity in code to avoid confusion and facilitate long-term code maintenance. Use comments to explain the purpose and operation of the code, especially in parts that may be confusing or complex to other developers. Break code into smaller, cohesive functions or methods for single purposes to make the code easy to understand and reuse. Avoid code duplication by using modularization to call functions or methods instead of repeating them. Maintain a uniform indentation, spacing, and wording format throughout the code to improve its readability and facilitate its maintenance. Set checkpoints and perform tests to ensure functionality and detect errors early before they become more difficult and expensive to fix. Manage code versions and document changes to have the ability to go back to the previous one if necessary and keep a record of all changes made. Consider the security when writing code and avoid common vulnerabilities such as SQL injection or Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities. Optimize code only when necessary based on real performance tests to identify bottlenecks and improve performance where necessary. These best practices are valuable professional skills that will help you be a more effective and efficient programmer, and develop code that can be worked on by multidisciplinary teams and can be used by other programmers in the future. Conclusion: Solid Professional Development in the Field of Programming Developing programming skills is not only crucial to adapting and thriving in today's society, it is also essential to staying competitive in the job market and contributing to the development of high performance organizations. Programming not only allows the creation of innovative technological solutions and task automation, but also encourages systematic and logical thinking, fundamental skills in any field. As dependence on technology continues to grow, learning to program becomes increasingly important for individual and business empowerment. Additionally, following good programming practices ensures efficiency, maintainability, and scalability of development projects. Want to know more? Visit our Blog: https://www.consultoriatacs.com/en/blog Ready to transform your company? Write to us at: contacto@consultoriatacs.com Contact us today and find out how we can grow your business together! About Pablo Tellaeche (Author): Owner and main consultant of TACs Consultores, Speaker and University Professor; seeks to bring a true and positive Lean Culture and Digital Transformation to every company with which he has the pleasure of collaborating.
- ADOPTION OR CREATION OF BUSINESS APPLICATIONS
Extract Meeting a company's technology needs involves a balance between adopting existing solutions for common needs and developing customized solutions when a specific adaptation to the organization's unique business processes is required. By considering not only short- and long-term costs, but also implementation times, the scalability of the systems, their ease of use, and the ability to integrate with existing systems, companies can meet their technological needs that move them closer to the achievement of their goals. Contents Transforming the Business World in the Digital Age Adopting Existing Business Applications: Proven Solutions Creating Custom Business Applications: Custom Solutions Conclusions: The Best Option is the one that Adjusts to your Conditions and Realities Transforming the Business World in the Digital Age In the current digital age, the implementation of technology has become the engine that drives the growth and efficiency of companies around the world. In this context, business applications play a critical role by allowing organizations to optimize their operations, automate processes, improve internal and external communication, and obtain valuable information about business performance for decision making. Business applications, computer programs that cover a wide range of functions, can be aimed at different business areas. Currently, there are various solutions available on the market that offer tools to meet specific needs in each of these areas. However, diversity in programming languages, versions, and design practices often makes it difficult to integrate these solutions. Therefore, the question arises: is it better to adopt them or create them? Both approaches seek to satisfy the technological needs of a company to improve its operations. In many cases, a combination of both strategies may be the best option, given that: Adoption: It is ideal when you are looking for a quick and cost-effective solution for common or standard needs, such as human resources management, accounting, customer monitoring or project management, you can opt for existing solutions on the market. Creation: It is most appropriate when a highly customized solution is sought or when existing solutions do not meet the specific needs of the organization. Adopting Existing Business Applications: Proven Solutions The adoption of existing solutions consists of acquiring business software already developed by third parties such as SAP, Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, among others. This approach often represents faster implementation, since the software is already developed and ready to use, and it is cheaper in terms of initial costs since you do not have to invest in development from scratch. However, heThe adoption of existing business applications on the market can be a complex process that requires careful planning and execution since many organizations already have a variety of systems and platforms in operation that must be integrable to ensure compatibility and interoperability between said solutions, which can be a challenge that must be addressed at different stages of the adoption process: Gathering of requirements: Brainstorm user stories and ideas to understand and understand their needs and preferences when selecting and deploying business applications. Scope definition: Determine the adjustments, improvements and systems expected in the implementation. Risk analysis: Identification of project risks regarding its quantitative and qualitative impacts in the short, medium and long term; especially in the data protection and prevention of cyber attacks. Supplier search and analysis: Contact with suppliers who have the human and technical capacity necessary to satisfy the demands of the project, budgets are requested and validated. Supplier selection and presentation: Presentation of the chosen supplier along with the documentation of the selection analysis. Implementation and monitoring: Appropriate training and ongoing support is received to ensure maximum use of new tools. System maintenance: Needs for improvement are analyzed at least once a year. The adoption process is more convenient when the technological maturity of the equipment is low, and the documentation and systematization of the processes are scarce, since the adopted solution includes its own processes, allowing the user to quickly adjust to the system. However, if the user has a high technological maturity or already has their highly refined processes, the adoption of market solutions can result in problems at a technical or human level due to the change in the way of working. Although many companies that provide these tools offer support, update and adjustment services for certain specific needs, these may be inefficient in the greater context of the system; Therefore, some companies choose to develop their own custom applications to satisfy specific needs that cannot be covered by pre-existing solutions. Creating Custom Business Applications: Custom Solutions Developing business applications from scratch provides the possibility of adapting them exactly to the organization's requirements and business processes for greater efficiency and competitiveness in the market, since you have full control over all functions and features of the application, allowing it to be adapted according to changing business demands. However, the creation of custom business applications usually requires a significant initial investment in terms of time and financial resources compared to the adoption of existing solutions; as well as constant maintenance to correct errors, implement new functions, and guarantee data security and the usability of the final product. The development of these solutions starts from a solid understanding of business needs and the systematization of processes, which should, in itself, reduce time and eliminate redundant tasks. In turn, there are a series of factors to take into account at each stage of the development process: Gathering of requirements: Starting from existing processes (written and unwritten). Scope definition: Take into consideration the user experience and the design of simple and understandable interfaces. Risk analysis: Especially the post-development service. Supplier search and analysis: Consultants or freelancers with experience not only in systems development, but also with prior knowledge of the industry. Supplier selection and presentation: Develop monitoring mechanisms from day one. Development and monitoring: Periodic sessions are held to guarantee the correct functioning and testing of the system. System maintenance: System maintenance and update agreements are generated. In turn, having a user-centered approach and a commitment to continuous improvement allows companies to make the most of the transformative power of technology to drive business growth and achieve business goals by optimizing your operations. Many times through task automation which allows repetitive activities to take up as little time as possible, thus freeing resources for other activities or even to have a more balanced personal life. Although most companies cannot afford to dedicate unlimited resources to internal software development, the initial development of certain solutions and scripts in Excel can be positive in the first steps towards the digitization and automation of the company and there is no need for an experienced and dedicated development team to ensure that applications meet the functions to operate intelligently. However, it is important to take into consideration the necessary quality and security standards depending on the information being handled. Investing in custom app development pays off in the long run, as these solutions can offer a greater return on investment by providing a level of customization and functionality not found in commercially available solutions. Conclusions: The Best Option is the one that Adjusts to your Conditions and Realities Business applications play a crucial role in the digital transformation of companies, enabling process automation, data-driven decision making and improving operational efficiency. Whether adopting existing solutions or creating custom applications, businesses have a wide range of tools at their disposal to meet their specific needs. and adapt to a constantly changing business environment. A summary of points to consider when choosing whether to adopt or develop is: Short and long term costs: Custom development may be expensive initially, but can provide significant savings and greater efficiency in the long term. Implementation time: Existing solutions typically have shorter implementation times, while custom development can take longer. Systems scalability: Both existing and customized solutions must be able to adapt as the business evolves, and grow with the company. Easy to use: An intuitive interface and proper training can make a difference in the adoption and success of the solution by accelerating the learning curve and making the application easier to use. Integration with existing systems: Ensure that the chosen solution can integrate seamlessly with existing systems to avoid compatibility and data redundancy issues. With careful planning and a strategic approach, business applications can be a powerful tool for boosting organizational performance and ensure business growth and success in today's digital world. Want to know more? Visit our Blog: https://www.consultoriatacs.com/en/blog Ready to transform your company? Write to us at: contacto@consultoriatacs.com Contact us today and find out how we can grow your business together! About Pablo Tellaeche (Author): Owner and main consultant of TACs Consultores, Speaker and University Professor; seeks to bring a true and positive Lean Culture and Digital Transformation to every company with which he has the pleasure of collaborating.
- THE URGENCY TRAP IN THE WORKING WORLD
Extract Urgency in the business world can be a dangerous trap that affects both companies and their collaborators. To overcome it, balanced approaches must be adopted focused on building healthier and more sustainable environments. Contents Finding Healthy Balance and Sustainability in High Demand Environments Problems of Being the Urgent Company: Anxiety and Organizational Burnout Challenges in Time Management: Obstacles to Achieving Productivity and Avoiding Urgency Procrastination Lack of Planning Multitasking Perfectionism The Role of Leaders: Developing a Positive Work Environment in the Emergency Department The Role of Collaborators: Overcoming Urgency to Achieve Success Conclusion: Establish Healthy Boundaries and Properly Prioritize Tasks Finding Healthy Balance and Sustainability in High Demand Environments In a business world increasingly driven by immediacy in the delivery of results, we find ourselves with the "urgent company" that lives from urgency to urgency, without a clear direction, in a constant state of stress, frustration and pressure due to the frenetic pace of their projects that can become unrealistic and healthy with the resources assigned to them. In these organizations, a culture of “everything is urgent”, where employees are expected to be immune to stress and anxiety, as if they were machines without feelings or emotions. However, this mentality can have serious consequences for both the development and growth of a company, as for the integration of people and work teams that make it up. The causes of this phenomenon are diverse and complex, with interrelated internal and external factors... Internally, a tense work environment affected by dynamics and power games, a lack of clear leadership and slow or bureaucratic processes contribute to the feeling of being consumed by urgency. Externally, lack of effective and transparent communication, poor goal alignment, market changes, and difficult customers further complicate the situation. In the short term, the culture of urgency may seem efficient, but in the long term it can have a devastating impact on health and well-being, as well as in the creativity, innovation and productivity of the teams. It is essential to understand that business success is not limited to the speed in delivering results, but also to the team well-being that allows us to adapt and thrive in demanding and changing environments. Problems of Being the Urgent Company: Anxiety and Organizational Burnout One of the main problems of the urgent company is its long-term vision loss. By constantly focusing on solving immediate problems (putting out fires) and achieving short-term objectives, the organization runs the risk of becoming trapped in an endless cycle of urgencies and frustrations, without the ability to anticipate risks and adapt to market changes. Lack of innovation and the inability to look beyond the day-to-day can lead to obsolescence and business decline. The constant pressure Due to meeting tight deadlines and the expectation that employees “live to work, not work to live”, sooner or later they will be forced to repress their emotions and feelings, which negatively affects their mental health, their job satisfaction. and their performance due to anxiety and exhaustion. In the long term, this can result in a loss of talent (silent or announced) invaluable to the company. Also, living in a constant state of urgency causes the feeling that nothing is urgent and everything has the same level of importance for the organization (“urge”), thus creating a poor work culture that must be promoted based on fear and coercion, which ends up destroying the company. To counteract the negative effects of urgent business, it is essential to find a balance between the rapid delivery of results and the well-being of collaborators. This involves taking a long-term view, effective time management, and promoting a High Performance work environment that values people as complete human beings, with emotions, needs and aspirations. Challenges in Time Management: Obstacles to Achieving Productivity and Avoiding Urgency Time is a valuable resource that must be used consciously and effectively to achieve meaningful results. Its efficient management is essential for productivity, since all people have the same amount of time available each day; However, not all companies manage it correctly due to the presence of any of these evils: Procrastination Postponing tasks until the last minute; It is closely related to the expectation that the task is a problem of the future. Some recommendations are: Start small and work your way up to big achievements. Take action and decision without hesitation to avoid the analysis that causes paralysis. Make internal deliveries before it is presented to the customer. Always do what you are avoiding doing. Lack of Planning Not having a clear plan for the day or week; It is closely related to the lack of sensitivity to distinguish between important and urgent tasks. Some recommendations are: Define and be clear about the objectives you want to achieve. Prioritize activities according to their relevance to the objective. Plan at least a week in advance. Measure your own and the team's capabilities. Multitasking Trying to do too many things at once; It is closely related to the belief that being busy means being productive. Some recommendations are: Avoid distractions such as notifications or unnecessary social interactions. Finish one task before starting another. Say no when necessary. Perfectionism Spending too much time trying to perfect each task; It is closely related to the belief that perfection is synonymous with value for a customer. Some recommendations are: Establish clear limits on the time that can be dedicated to a task. Define the minimum of what the client expects and give him a little more. Avoid comparing yourself to other people's standards or achievements. At the same time,the leaders and collaborators are responsible for their own time and must do what is necessary to manage it appropriately. The Role of Leaders: Developing a Positive Work Environment in the Emergency Department For leaders and entrepreneurs caught in the constant urgency, it is crucial to take steps to get out of this cycle and build a healthy and sustainable business culture. Some recommendations are: Establish a long-term vision with specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and tangible objectives and goals for oneself and the team. Plan and prioritize tasks appropriately with complete information to evaluate the possible repercussions of its (non)compliance. Open spaces for reflection and well-being with recreational activities and mindfulness sessions, emotional support and coaching. Encourage innovation and encourage teams to propose new ideas and solutions, recognizing and rewarding creativity. Encourage communication open and transparent when listening to collaborators' concerns and suggestions, and taking steps to increase team trust. By adopting these recommendations, leaders and entrepreneurs can free themselves from the urgency trap constant and build a healthier, more productive and sustainable company in the long term. Furthermore, it is important to recognize thatEmployee loyalty arises when they feel valued, respected and supported in their professional and personal development. This means offering opportunities for growth and development, fostering an inclusive and equitable work environment, and recognizing and rewarding work well done. The Role of Collaborators: Overcoming Urgency to Achieve Success For employees who find themselves immersed in a work environment marked by constant urgency, it is essential to take care of your well-being and find strategies to manage stress, relax, recharge and maintain a healthy balance between work and career. Some recommendations are: Disconnect from work outside of working hours and set aside time for activities such as exercise, meditation, or deep breathing. Make use of the Eisenhower Matrix and prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance to avoid feeling overwhelmed by the amount of work. Make use of the Pomodoro Technique and divide the day into blocks of time dedicated to specific tasks and regular breaks to avoid burnout. Communicate needs and concerns to superiors and colleagues in a clear, respectful and timely manner when possible. Apply techniques to deal with stress and anxiety such as positive visualization, therapeutic writing, and developing a support network outside of work. By implementing these recommendations, the person can face the urgency of everyday life more effectively and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Remember that your well-being is essential and that taking care of yourself will allow you to be more productive and effective at work in the long term, which opens the door to new personal and professional opportunities. Conclusion: Establish Healthy Boundaries and Properly Prioritize Tasks Recognizing the dangers of urgency and taking proactive measures to counter them is essential for a brighter and more promising future. Instead of falling into this trap, companies must seek a balance between the rapid delivery of results and the well-being of their collaborators, adopting a long term vision and promoting a culture that values people as human beings. Only in this way will they be able to build a sustainable and successful future for all. For both leaders and employees, it is important to set clear boundaries and prioritize tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed by the constant urgency. Proper planning, delegation of responsibilities, and open communication are key to maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Additionally, it is essential to take care of physical, mental, and emotional well-being through self-care and developing effective coping skills. Want to know more? Visit our Blog: https://www.consultoriatacs.com/en/blog Ready to transform your company? Write to us at: contacto@consultoriatacs.com Contact us today and find out how we can grow your business together! About Pablo Tellaeche (Author): Owner and main consultant of TACs Consultores, Speaker and University Professor; seeks to bring a true and positive Lean Culture and Digital Transformation to every company with which he has the pleasure of collaborating.
- THE DIFFICULTIES OF THE FAMILY BUSINESS AND THEIR SOLUTIONS
Extract Family businesses face unique business challenges such as family conflicts, lack of professionalization, difficulties in succession, role confusion, financing limitations, lack of talent diversification, short-term focus and family talent management. To overcome these difficulties, it is crucial to focus on professionalization, establish clear succession planning, promote a strong company culture, and effectively manage family talent. Contents When You Can't Separate Personal Life from Work Life Family Business Administration: Administrative Council and Family Council Succession: Maximum Test of Survival and Business Continuity of the Family Business Conclusion: From the Family Business to the Business Family When You Can't Separate Personal Life from Work Life From small local businesses to large multinational corporations, many organizations find their roots in family. However, behind the apparent unity and loyalty often associated with family businesses, lurks an intricate web of unique challenges and complications that, if not proactively addressed, can threaten the long-term sustainability and business growth. Proactively addressing the challenges of the family business involves questioning and transforming paradigms rooted that, although they apparently provide stability, can be obstacles to the sustainable development of the business. Among them: “The business endures everything” where long-term financial health is compromised by allocating business profits to personal expenses (events, vacations, luxuries, among others) before meeting business obligations (payroll, suppliers, reinvestment, among others). “Business is eternal” where ego over past success leads to neglect of customer service, lack of differentiation and reliability, and absence of a clear strategy, resulting in progressive loss of customers. “Decisions belong to the family” where the organizational structure is weakened by basing decisions on family ties instead of business needs. “The family does not come from the base” where employees and family members are treated unequally in terms of demands, incentives and responsibility. “We never think of the worst” where there is no planned transition process between generations that includes the selection, preparation and adjustment of new leaders to ensure the health and continued growth of the business. “Don't look, here you go” where the potential for innovation is limited by forcing family members to participate in the business without having known other work cultures. Breaking these paradigms involves overcoming obsolete routines and develop professionalization of business management, focus on efficiency and implementation of clear policies in the operation and administration of the business, among which the following stand out: Separate Personal Finances from Business Finances so as not to undermine the organization's efforts to prosper. Develop a Continuous Improvement Culture to promote innovation and competitiveness of the company with the support of internal and external advisors. Establish Business intelligence to make decisions based on objective data, rather than relying solely on intuition. Adopt a Management by Results to level the playing field and generate a sense of belonging, commitment and motivation throughout the team. Proactively identify and address Business Risks to avoid unforeseen surprises that put business continuity at stake. Prioritize the Personal and professional Development of the Collaborators to encourage the acquisition of new skills and perspectives. This will build a solid foundation for the continuity and continued success of these family businesses over time and help them overcome entrenched paradigms. Family Business Administration: Administrative Council and Family Council One of the most obvious challenges in family businesses is the confusion of roles and hierarchies. Often the line between family and business is blurred, creating significant tensions. In this context, the Board of Directors in a Family Business plays a crucial role in separating interests related to the emotional part (family ties, the interaction between its members and the fight for power) and rational family business (the economic and operational stability of the company). This facilitates the growth and good direction of the organization. As the supreme body of corporate governance, the Board of Directors makes critical decisions that influence all aspects of the organization: Make decisions on relevant investments and asset disposals. Supervise corporate operations and definition of key policies. Monitor the execution of strategic initiatives and tactical plans. Establish and monitor budgets and financial projections. Approve the Strategic plan and changes in objectives. Among others. Although it is sometimes perceived as a regulatory obligation, its importance goes beyond legal requirements, since it serves as a management mechanism to promote strategic initiatives. There is no single structure, but for family businesses or SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises), a board composed of 4-6 members that includes at least a President, a Secretary and several Directors (shareholders or external independents) is considered optimal. In turn, the frequency of meetings varies, but an average between 4 and 12 annual meetings, adjusting to the specific situation and needs of the company, is considered prudent. The alignment of objectives between the Board of Directors and the Family is essential. For this, the creation of a Family Council is essential to establish and align the priorities and expectations of the family in relation to the management of the company, facilitating effective communication with the Board of Directors. Your responsibilities include: Solve problems in the business-family environment. Review business strategies and approaches. Define family plans and projects. Encourage family participation. Transmit values to the company. Among others. Disagreements, common in any organization, can quickly become personal in a family business. The inability to manage these conflicts effectively can have devastating consequences in the work and family environment, leading to staff turnover (silent or announced) even from family members. One of the most frequent and critical disagreements for the organization are succession issues. Succession: Maximum Test of Survival and Business Continuity of the Family Business Transforming an individual business into a family business marks a milestone, but succession between generations is essential to ensure the significance of the achievement. This process requires proper planning and coordination, and goes beyond the change of leadership. Succession in family businesses is a complex challenge that decides the future of the company, the ownership structure and the family relationship. This has implications… For the Administrative Council, which must ensure that succession is a planned process and not a reactive process and subject to unforeseen circumstances such as an accident, disabling illnesses, or sudden death. For the Outgoing Leader, which must evaluate the most appropriate time and type of departure, develop successors before they are needed and consider different post-succession roles. For the Incoming Leader, which must provide continuity without interruptions, adjust the strategy and structure of the organization and earn the loyalty, respect and support of collaborators For the family, which must instill business values, motivate interest in the family business, monitor its performance and establish clear guidelines for succession. While the new incoming generation is eager to exert control and establish independence, the old outgoing generation faces the difficulty of leaving their life's work. Whereby generational transition requires careful preparation and openness to different possibilities. The Family Protocol emerges as a fundamental tool for the unification of the family and the institutionalization of the company. This document details principles, values and guidelines of family integration for conflict resolution and performance evaluation of employed family members; which is key in the process of transferring ownership and management of the company. Its creation and maintenance involves meetings, planning exercises and an annual review of the document to adapt to changes in the business and family environment. Through careful planning, teamwork, the development of capable successors and a lot of adaptability, family businesses can not only pass this ultimate test but also ensure a long-lasting and prosperous legacy in the business world. The Board of Directors and the General Management of the company must be given the authority to communicate, monitor, implement and audit the execution of the Family Protocol so that this instrument serves effectively. Conclusion: From the Family Business to the Business Family Although family businesses face unique challenges, they are not doomed to failure. By recognizing these issues and proactively addressing them, family businesses can turn these challenges into opportunities for growth and empowerment.Careful planning, open communication and professionalization of management are key steps to overcome the difficulties inherent to family businesses and ensure the development of a High Performance organization that achieves business success. Ultimately, the ability to effectively balance the family and the business is the key to navigating the turbulent waters of the family business. Want to know more? Visit our Blog: https://www.consultoriatacs.com/en/blog Ready to transform your company? Write to us at: contacto@consultoriatacs.com Contact us today and find out how we can grow your business together! About Pablo Tellaeche (Author): Owner and main consultant of TACs Consultores, Speaker and University Professor; seeks to bring a true and positive Lean Culture and Digital Transformation to every company with which he has the pleasure of collaborating.