Process Documentation – An Effective Tool for Employees
Dinners were getting boring. We were eating the same foods over again. During my search for new recipes, I found Beef Barbacoa, a spicy Mexican meat used in tacos. It sounded delicious so I committed to trying it.
When cooking something for the first time, I find it best to strictly follow a written recipe so that I have the greatest chance of making a delicious meal. If I didn’t follow a written recipe, can you imagine the disaster I would have?!
So why would a process consultant talk about recipes?
Recipes and process documentation are remarkably similar.
They have step-by-step instructions to complete the tasks.
They transform inputs (ingredients) to outputs (delicious meal).
When clearly written, they are easy for everyone to understand.
When referenced, tasks get done correctly and repeatedly.
Without written instructions, there will be problems.
In practical terms, written process documentation provides a useful tool for employees. New employees can learn the detailed aspects of their role – what are their responsibilities, what tasks are completed, how tasks should be completed, and what systems or forms are used. In addition, process documentation is a great reference for all employees. When they have questions or need clarification of the process, they can refer to the documentation to find the answers they need. As a result, employees will be more engaged and have higher job satisfaction.
Process documentation, like recipes, are written so that your employees can achieve the best results for your business.
Contact me if you need assistance with your process documentation or improvement.
P.S. Would you like the Beef Barbacoa recipe?