Got Workflows?

One of the things we recommend to our clients and all small business owners is to have systems as much as possible. We like to focus on Set It and Forget it Systems, meaning they are triggered and then executed with little input or action by the business owner.

Part of having a Set It and Forget It System is capturing it somewhere outside of the business owner’s head. This not only increases consistency for the process, but also helps with delegating tasks. And in business, we call these workflows.

First, let’s start with the basics and define our terms.

Workflow: The steps taken to reach an outcome, in the order they need to be taken and by whom.

System: The tools, triggers, and infrastructure needed to complete the workflow.

There are several ways to organize a workflow. You will need to determine what works best for you and what flows better.

For example, Take a performing troupe’s workflow for preparing for a show. They may organize by event and track all the steps needed to prepare for that event, such as reserving the date, confirming the availability of the talent, invoicing the client, scripting the performance, etc. Or, they may organize by task and track which events are in which task.

​By the Event:

There are even more sophisticated, yet simple (and free!) tools business owners can use to design their workflows. Thinking through how to organize a workflow is a good first step. It may even be the only step needed, depending on how complicated the workflow or how many people are involved. Whether this is your only step or just your first step, designing workflows in ways that advance your business is a key to success.

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To further help with your business’ success, contact Freedom Makers to find a virtual assistant to help with workflows. Take our Task Audit Quiz to determine what areas you can outsource.