The criticism often levelled at Lean and 6 sigma business initiatives is that they stifle creativity, original thought and innovation.
Yet in the midst of an economic crisis it would seem folly to argue that these tried and tested business regimes are fit for purpose.
I would contend that in business, as in life in general, it is fool hardy to always be looking to solve the problems of yester year instead of seeking the best way to address the challenges of the future.
Greed may have been a key constituent of the problem that has brought us to this point. A reflex response to cut out the fat, the excess and the non performing, should not be confused with unchecked cost reduction, down sizing and a blind hurtling down the path of never ending efficiency.
When you squeeze every last drop out of the people who remain they have very little ability or appetite to think beyond the restrictions of process and the constant overhanging pressures of performance targets. What room then for the sources of competitive advantage that might just haul a business out of the pit of recession.
People need to believe that they are more than just automatons. They need to be treated as humans and given the space to do what humans do best which is to evolve, find new solutions, be creative and think the unthinkable – to dream.
Certainly greed has been a key factor in creating this economic crisis but I believe that stifling our individualism and spirit, chasing the last cent of profit, was a contributing process.
So as we look forward to how we will best pull through these difficult times, I urge business leaders to rediscover trust in people, in their resourcefulness and creativity. Yes spend money on marketing but also look to understand and make provision for personal development.
Without people business is a hollow shell with no purpose.
