Ensure a consistent process across the organisation

The more variation or steps in a process the higher the cost. A consistent process reduces the potential for errors and the resource effort, benefiting everyone.

What you can do
Make sure everyone understands the process and what they need to do

• This is not easy and will be an on-going challenge
  
• For organisation wide processes be strict on limiting variations. If you allow one you can guarantee more will follow

Simplify the process

• Eliminate any unnecessary steps
  
• Remove any duplication of controls, they are a waste of time and effort
  

Document the process

• Task people with documenting their processes
  
• If you have not done it before start with your important processes
  
• If you have current documentation then review it for changes
  
• Documenting is the only way of ensuring people will know what to do
  
• You should review your documentation at least once a year

Concentrate work in specific areas

• This creates scale within activities and provides support for people performing a common task.
  
• If there is only one location all common activity should be concentrated into one area
  
• If you have more than one location it may be appropriate to split some functions across all of them. But you will have to accept this will reduce efficiency.
  
• If different teams interact regular try to locate them close together