Add these questions to your monthly review so you can keep a retrospective habit, so you know how your system is working for you.
Six questions for workflow improvement
Do I keep missing deadlines or requirements from a project?
A decent system could help you estimate more clearly who and what needs to happen by when, as well as ensuring reliability and respect for anyone. It’s ok if it happens once, we’ve all been there, but if it’s a continuous problem, then you need to evaluate if the project is a priority and make sure there are steps in place that ensure you stay on track.
Is the scope of the project continually changing?
The right workflow could help you reduce the amount of scope creep. Make sure your project and requirements are appropriately defined, prioritized, documented, or controlled, paired with effective communication channels.
Do I feel overwhelmed with all the information I have?
Having the right organizational framework can help you have everything in one place. I highly recommend BASB methods for digital organization.
Do I spend more time than I need to trying to find a piece of information?
Similar to the question above. Setting an organizational system in place will help you reduce the time spent trying to look for the right information.
Are there any blocks are keeping my project from moving forward?
With the right workflow, you will find more moments of retrospection to identify the bottlenecks that keep your projects stuck.
Am I in reactive mode and putting off fires all the time?
Even with a simple system, you can stay in control of your projects and remain flexible enough to deal with the random stuff that needs your attention. Rather than only planning out the week based on what happens to be in front of you at the moment, you proactively take the initiative to find which hours you will be investing in the things that you’ve decided are most important.
If you said YES to some or all of these questions, then you have an excellent opportunity for improving your systems.
If not, then that’s amazing! Good on you for keeping it together.
If you have no system or you need to find ways to improve your workflow, I hope you join my Bootcamp!
