As the number of processes a business has to manage grows, it’s essential to develop workflow processes that streamline the processes. A well-designed workflow improves accountability, communication, reduces redundant tasks, and increases efficiency. It helps businesses find ways to automate specific tasks, thus increasing productivity while reducing costs for labor.
The first step in developing the workflow process is to collect unstructured information about the current process. This includes information about the places handoffs occur, the sequence of events timelines, resources and handoffs, as well as metrics. It’s also helpful to gather subject matter experts, or SME, who can provide more information about the current process and highlight any issues.
The next step is to establish an organizational structure for workflow. A workflow is a sequence of actions, tasks and responsibilities that govern the flow of information through an organization. Workflows allow teams to communicate and collaborate, preventing mistakes and creating a simple source of truth for all project work.
It’s important to identify both an executive leader for the project and an individual leader to oversee the workflow during this phase. This person will be responsible for implementing and ensuring that all the work is completed in a timely manner. They will also serve as the point of contact for any questions or feedback regarding the project. They will also ensure that the appropriate team members have been assigned tasks and are capable of completing these within a timeframe.