Efficiency and adaptability are overused terms when discussing ways to improve an operating environment. Ask any Ops manager and they will tell you that their goals for this year are to improve on both of them. They may not tell you however that those were their goals for last year, and the year before, etc. It almost seems like an endless exercise is trying to improve without really knowing what (or how) to improve upon.
While there are many industry tools to help firms with making operations processes in and of themselves smarter, what if we also readjusted the way we think about an operation or an operations team? Smart Operations, or Smart Ops, when it is implemented correctly, is a combined framework of smarter tools and realignment of traditional support teams.
Smart Ops is an organizational approach that integrates advanced process-oriented strategies owned and operated by fewer individuals with more advanced technical skills. It focuses on equipping team members with the ability to perform (monitor, ideally) their core tasks while charging them with solving technical problems that arise and empowering them to continually innovate and expand beyond a process or procedure. The combination of tools and skill creates a more agile, responsive, and efficient team dynamic, and makes operations jobs a whole lot more interesting.
Why Smart Ops Works
1. By combining operational and technical skills, Smart Ops ensures that team members are not just executors of tasks but also problem solvers. This reduces dependency on separate technical teams and fosters a culture of continuous improvement.
2. With a Smart Ops approach, bottlenecks are minimized as team members can address and resolve issues in real-time. This leads to faster decision-making and implementation, enhancing overall productivity.
3. Teams feel more valued and motivated when they are given the tools and knowledge to contribute beyond their basic responsibilities. This empowerment leads to higher job satisfaction and retention rates.
How Smart Ops Works
1. Smart Ops encourages collaboration between operations and technical functions. This synergy results in more innovative solutions and streamlined workflows.
2. Teams are better equipped to handle unexpected challenges and can pivot quickly to address new opportunities or threats. This agility is crucial in maintaining a competitive edge.
3. With a comprehensive understanding of both the operational and technical aspects, team members can identify root causes of issues and implement effective solutions, reducing downtime and increasing efficiency.
Real-World Examples of Smart Ops
Several firms have successfully implemented Smart Ops, demonstrating its effectiveness:
- Goldman Sachs: The financial giant has adopted a Smart Ops approach in its technology and operations division. By cross-training employees in both finance and technology, Goldman Sachs has improved its trading systems’ reliability and speed, enhancing overall client satisfaction.
- Amazon: Known for its relentless focus on efficiency, Amazon utilizes Smart Ops principles to streamline its logistics and supply chain operations. By integrating technical skills within its operational teams, Amazon can quickly address and resolve issues, ensuring smooth and timely deliveries.
- Procter & Gamble (P&G): P&G has leveraged Smart Ops to enhance its manufacturing processes. By equipping plant floor workers with technical skills, P&G has reduced downtime, improved product quality, and increased overall production efficiency.
Smart Ops is more than just a trend; it’s a transformative approach that redefines team dynamics and operational efficiency.
Contact us to discuss the processing solutions and organizational advantages Smart Ops can bring to your team.
