How often are we asked to streamline administrative processes without clear guidance or a roadmap? This is a common scenario for many Assistants. Managers might bring in professional consultants for large-scale business improvement projects, yet they often rely on their Assistants to revamp critical administrative workflows without proper instruction or training.
Even if you manage to revamp inefficient admin procedures, how do you ensure your colleagues adopt these changes? How do you make sure your admin improvement projects stick?
Let’s explore some modern project management techniques to help you not only implement changes but also learn how to ensure your admin improvement projects stick.
In today’s fast-paced work environment, Assistants can benefit from integrating proven methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, Agile, and Design Thinking into their project management toolkit. These frameworks not only help in identifying and solving problems but also foster collaboration and adaptability—essential for successful admin improvement projects.
One of the most effective tools is DMAIC, which stands for:
I’ve found DMAIC invaluable when addressing admin process issues, such as reducing company expenses on hotel accommodations. This structured approach ensures that the changes you make are successful and sustainable. Let’s break down how each phase can be adapted with contemporary project management insights.
The first step is to define the project clearly. This involves:
Tip: Utilize tools like OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) to align your project goals with broader organizational objectives. OKRs help you stay focused and measure success effectively.
In my hotel accommodation project, I narrowed the focus to just hotel expenses, excluding other travel-related costs. This clarity helped streamline the entire process.
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