Economic volatility, whether on a macro or micro scale, can make business decisions feel like navigating a storm in a dinghy.
That said, it's precisely during these turbulent times that systemisation becomes not just a strategy, but a life raft.
When done thoughtfully, systems can provide the stability, clarity, and agility your business needs to thrive, even in the most unpredictable circumstances. So, here’s what you need to keep in mind to ensure your systemisation efforts don’t just survive the wild conditions, but help your business emerge stronger on the other side, as well as some practical applications.
Cost-Effective Flexibility:
Scalable Solutions for Tight Budgets
During periods of economic uncertainty, every dollar counts. This makes it essential to choose technologies and approaches that are not only cost-effective but also flexible enough to scale with your business. As we often discuss with our clients, the right solutions should deliver maximum value without straining your finances, allowing you to stay nimble and responsive, even as budgets tighten.
A QUICK WIN: Start by evaluating your current systems to identify areas where scalability is lacking. Consider cloud-based solutions that offer flexible pricing and can easily expand as your needs grow.
Quick Wins and Risk Management:
Early Successes with a Safety Net
In volatile times, it’s tempting to look for big, sweeping changes. However, focusing on early, measurable successes can provide the momentum your organisation needs while reinforcing appropriate risk management strategies. In our experience, those that focus on quick wins are better positioned to manage risks and keep morale high, even when the broader economy is uncertain. These smaller victories build confidence and demonstrate the tangible benefits of systemisation, without overwhelming your team or resources.
A QUICK WIN: Identify one or two key processes that can be systemised with minimal disruption and track their impact closely. Pair this with a thorough risk assessment to ensure you have contingency plans in place.
Systemisation isn’t just about processes and technology, it’s about people
Stakeholder Communication:
Build Trust, Mitigate Resistance
Clear, consistent communication is crucial when systemising operations at any time, but becomes paramount during times of financial turbulence. Stakeholders - from your team to your customers - need to understand not just the “what” and “how,” but also the “why” behind these changes. Context is everything. Building trust through transparent communication helps mitigate resistance and fosters a collaborative environment where everyone feels invested in the success of the transformation, and engaged in the efforts that need to be made to support it.
A QUICK WIN: Schedule regular updates with all stakeholders to explain the rationale behind systemisation efforts and to address any concerns. Use these meetings to gather feedback and adjust your approach as needed.
Change Management Investment:
Supporting Your Team
Teams that receive adequate support during system changes are more resilient, adaptable, and ultimately more successful in the long run - we’ve seen it time and time again. Systemisation isn’t just about processes and technology, it’s about people. Investing in change management, through training and culture-building, ensures your team is equipped to navigate the transformation smoothly. This not only minimises disruption but also empowers your employees to take ownership of new tools and techniques, leading to higher productivity and a purposeful culture.
A QUICK WIN: Develop a comprehensive training program that aligns with your systemisation goals. Include ongoing support options, such as mentorship or a dedicated helpdesk, to assist employees as they adapt to new systems.
Economic volatility may seem daunting, but with the right systemisation strategies in place, it can also be an opportunity to strategically strengthen and future-proof your business via highly focused tech selection, scenario stress-testing, and creative collaboration, all of which help push problem-solving to the forefront of your operation.
Want to make sure your business is built to weather any storm? We’ve got some thoughts on how systemisation can be your anchor, even when you’re dropping it into the unknown :)
