Every business whether you realise it or not has a business operating system. It is an important component of the business as it determines so much about its success or failure. So what is a business operating system and why do you need to know about it.
What is a Business Operating System?
A business operating system consists of all the business functions and processes that support the day-to-day business activities. This includes your business’s goals and objectives, communication strategy and processes and procedures. If your business is facing challenges or problems, then it is probably related to your business operating system.
Why your business operating system may be the problem?
Poorly running business operating systems cause problems for business leaders. They can stifle growth, hinder the execution of strategy and prevent executive vision from being realised. Here are 6 things to look out for that suggest problems with the business operating system.
People are always frantically busy, but nothing ever seems to get done.
Teams and their members show a lack of intuition around what they should be doing.
There is poor planning below the strategic level and when there is they are never followed.
Profit margins are falling or stagnant even when sales are rising.
Meetings are unproductive.
Lack of focus and direction amongst employees.
If this rings a bell then it is time to try something different. The most likely cause in this situation is that the business operating system is not fit for its purpose and will need serious adjustment, restructure or change.
TAKEAWAY: If your startup is encountering issues, especially as it is scaling then your business operating system is the likely culprit. Take the time to review and make the changes necessary to get it back on track.