Process optimisation in five steps
Definition, meaning and implementation
Digital transformation goals such as greater customer focus, shorter time-to-market or improving product quality require many measures, one of which is process optimisation and therefore an important part of any successful corporate strategy in order to remain competitive.
Why is it important to optimise processes?
But why is effective process optimisation so important? Especially in times of increasing competitive pressure, companies need to continuously review and optimise their processes. This is not only about saving time and costs, but also about taking customer requirements into account. Well thought-out process optimisation enables companies to concentrate on their core competencies and generate long-term success. The use of state-of-the-art technologies, such as the automation or digitalisation of work processes, can also increase employee motivation.
Basics of process optimisation
Process optimisation is based on a comprehensive analysis of existing processes. This identifies weak points and potential for improvement, which can then be addressed in a targeted manner. However, process optimisation is not a one-off project – rather, it is a continuous process. Because even if an optimum result has been achieved, the processes must be regularly reviewed and adapted to new circumstances. In addition, clear goals should be defined. Only in this way can the company ensure long-term success through effective processes.
Goals of process optimisation
The objectives of process optimisation are diverse and can vary depending on the company. First and foremost, it aims to improve the efficiency, quality and performance of business processes. Some of the most important goals are:
- Cost reduction: Costs can be reduced by identifying and eliminating waste, bottlenecks and inefficient activities in a process. Automation, reducing errors, shortening throughput times and optimising resource utilisation are the main factors here.
- Increasing productivity: Optimised process design enables employees to complete tasks more efficiently and therefore increase productivity. Simplifying processes and reducing waiting times are crucial here.
- Improving quality: Minimising errors, standardising work processes and implementing quality controls improves the quality of products or services.
- Increased customer satisfaction: Faster response to customer requirements, shorter delivery times and the provision of high-quality products and services lead to more satisfied customers.
- Flexibility and adaptability: Optimised process design supports adaptation to changing market conditions and improves competitiveness.
- Sustainability: Process optimisation helps to use resources more sparingly and reduce the environmental impact, e.g. by reducing the use of energy and materials.
Procedure for process optimisation
To achieve maximum impact it is important to plan the approach to process optimisation in advance as well as to take into account the specific needs of the company, its customers and its employees when selecting methods and processes. Successful process optimisation requires a clear strategy and committed employees. All stakeholders should therefore be integrated into the change process from the outset in order to minimise resistance within the company.
Step 1: Analyse and document processes
The first measure is to analyse and document existing processes in connection with the entire IT landscape. Changes affect different areas of the company, so it is important to have a precise overview of the interrelationships. Relevant information such as time and resource requirements as well as potential weak points should be recorded.
Step 2: Identify potential for improvement
Weak points or bottlenecks can be identified on the basis of the documented processes. Customer requirements and employee concerns should be taken into account in order to better fulfil their needs. In this step, goals are also defined that are to be achieved through the process improvement, including KPI definition.
Step 3: Develop a strategy
After analysing processes and identifying potential for improvement, it is crucial to develop a strategy. This includes prioritising the processes to be optimised and defining KPIs at process and team level.
Step 4: Take measures for optimisation
Specific optimisation measures can be developed on the basis of the analysis results. This includes deciding on the requirements for the IT architecture, the selection of tools and working methods.
Step 5: Monitor and continuously improve implementation
The measures implemented must be regularly reviewed and adjusted in order to achieve a sustainable effect. Key performance indicator systems show the success and adjustments must be made if necessary. Monitoring ensures that the optimised processes have the desired effect, e.g. in the form of cost savings or higher product quality. New market developments should be taken into account and team members must be empowered to make the best use of the new processes and tools.
Challenges and success factors in process optimisation
However, successful process optimisation can also pose challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is often the acceptance and commitment of employees, as changes to the workflow can cause uncertainty and resistance. Clear communication is an important success factor here. Goals should be communicated transparently in order to get everyone involved on the same page. A realistic timetable for implementation should also be set – after all, complex processes cannot be optimised overnight.
Trends and developments in process optimisation
A clear trend in the area of process optimisation, particularly in the area of production processes, is the automation of processes, for example in the form of robotic process automation (RPA), in order to reduce manual tasks and achieve efficiency gains.
Digital transformation also remains an important topic. Companies are utilising technologies such as cloud computing, big data analytics and artificial intelligence to improve their processes and make better decisions. AI is becoming increasingly important here, just as it is in automation. This is because AI provides data analyses that can be used to identify inefficient processes. This enables companies to react to problems at an early stage and prevent potential bottlenecks, resulting in a smoother and more efficient process landscape overall.
In line with the trend towards digital transformation, agile methods continue to be used frequently and processes are being streamlined according to lean management principles. Customer journey mapping, which incorporates the customer perspective and thus helps companies to better understand and harmonise their processes, takes account of increased customer demands.
In order to meet the increased need for communication, the use of collaboration tools is increasing, as such frameworks enable a more efficient exchange of information between employees and teams, which helps to optimise processes.
Recommendations for future process optimisation projects
However, there are a few key points to consider for the success of process optimisation projects:
- Involvement of all relevant stakeholders: To ensure the acceptance and commitment of employees, it is important to involve all stakeholders in the optimisation process at an early stage. This can be done through workshops or regular team meetings, for example.
- Use of agile methods: Agile approaches such as Scrum or Kanban can help to promote continuous improvement and achieve faster results.
- Use of modern technologies: The use of digital solutions such as workflow management systems or robotic process automation (RPA) enables efficient automation of workflows and helps to increase productivity.
- Set measurable goals: Clear objectives with measurable KPIs create a basis for reviewing the success of the optimisation process and making adjustments if necessary.
- Continuous monitoring & obtaining feedback: Regular monitoring and review of the optimised processes as well as obtaining feedback both internally and externally are decisive factors for sustainable success in the context of professional process optimisation.
Successful process optimisation
It has become clear that there are a number of factors that need to be taken into account if process optimisation is to be successful. The basic prerequisite is precise knowledge of the process landscape in the company as well as a clear strategy and objectives for implementation, in which the customer and employees should take centre stage. It is therefore crucial that all stakeholders are involved in the process from the outset, as change can only succeed if everyone involved is convinced that the project makes sense.
