We've always done it that way
A couple of weeks ago I wrote about approving memberships, and how some associations make it far too complicated. (You can read that here.) It's a good example of "we've always done it that way."
Anyone who has been around for more than a few days has probably encountered this line. "We've always done it that way" is equivalent to saying "I don't know, that's how I was told to do it." (Which is also an answer I hear too often.)
The best way to respond to that answer is to ask "But why? Why do we do it that way?" If the why can't be answered, it might be time to trash the process itself.
So take a look at any process within your organization that doesn't make immediate sense, and ask "Why? Why are we doing it this way?" The answer might scare you (and you might be able to eliminate some time-wasting processes!).
Wes's Wednesday Wisdom Archives
“Correct your mistakes before they become your habits”
“Correct your mistakes before they become your habits” Yet another great quote from James Clear: “Correct […]
Sometimes it’s a process issue
Sometimes it’s a process issue When I work with clients on developing a needs list […]
First ask: “How will I use this data?”
First ask: “How will I use this data?” Whether it’s during data conversion, adding a […]
“We run the report three times and get three different results.”
“We run the report three times and get three different results.” “We run the same […]
How do you know if you’re making progress?
How do you know if you’re making progress? We all want to improve our data management, […]
Don’t move too quickly OR too slowly
Don’t move too quickly OR too slowly This may sound like a big “duh!” but I’ll […]
“Your current habits are perfectly designed to deliver your current results.”
“Your current habits are perfectly designed to deliver your current results.” “Your current habits are […]
There is value in just going through the exercise
There is value in just going through the exercise I was working with a client […]
Daylight savings and business rules
Daylight savings and business rules This past Sunday, most of the US observed Daylight Savings […]
It’s always about priorities
It’s always about priorities No matter the size or type of technology project, you will […]