Is your company becoming overly focused on itself?
Any system, once it’s running, risks quickly becoming outdated.
A company often generates many ideas internally, but over time, these ideas can lose their effectiveness and freshness. When that happens, your competitors may gain an advantage.
People frequently say things like, “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it,” or “Stick with what works.” To me, that’s outdated thinking. Today, it’s essential to constantly seek ways to improve.
One of the biggest pitfalls for a company is relying solely on internal suggestions and advice. These ideas are often discussed repeatedly in meetings, becoming worn out and losing their impact due to endless delays.
Many businesses fail to look beyond their own walls into a world where social learning is generating innovative and dynamic methods for improving operations.
Every company collects huge amounts of data—stacks of thick computer reports pile up on desks, file cabinets, chairs, and in boxes. Some reports end up discarded without being read. Why do so many reports just sit around? Are they produced merely for appearances, rather than for meaningful review?
On a visit to a retailer, I met with the owner who invited me to his office. I saw four stacks of computer reports on the table and more in a box. The room was filled half with the owner and half with paperwork—the box was covered in dust.
When I asked about his main concerns, he said, “We need help finding the reasons for our produce shrink. Our profits are down, and we’re losing money.”
I immediately told him the answers could be right there in his office. He looked confused, so I pointed out that all those data reports might contain key clues for identifying areas of waste and loss.
A major issue with companies becoming too inward facing is that they stick to the same routines. Reports arrive, get set aside, and the valuable information inside them is ignored—even though it could solve problems.
Previously, there was no social media for sharing information, no advanced data analytics, no category management—just straightforward buying and selling, much of it based on guesswork. Today, guessing isn’t enough to solve your challenges.
Intense competition and shrinking margins demand more than internal perspectives. Companies should look outward and bring in professionals with industry expertise—they have deep knowledge of current trends.
Don’t let your company get stuck in old habits just because that’s how it’s always been.
External experts can help your company operate even more efficiently. Open your doors to experienced professionals to boost your margins and drive improvement.
What do you think? Write to me at ronprocon@gmail.com
