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Let's Parse it Out- Strategy, Processes, Procedures, Workflows, and Systems

Updated: Jan 23, 2023

Okay, what the flip are all these terms anyway? Let's talk about it.


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Before you're driven to this... read below!

When it comes to running a successful business, there are a lot of different moving parts to keep track of. One way to make sense of it all is to break it down into smaller, more manageable components. Don't let it get you down! In this blog post, we're going to take a closer look at five key elements of business management: strategy, processes, procedures, workflows, and systems.


Strategy is the Word


First, strategy! A business strategy is a plan for how a company will achieve its goals and objectives. It's the overarching framework that guides all decision-making and actions within a business. A good strategy should be clear, actionable, and aligned with the company's overall vision and mission. It should also be flexible and adaptable to changes in the market and industry. When I delve into a client's business, this is the first thing I'm thinking about! What is the best feasible strategy that I can use to help my client achieve their objectives, whether that's backend management, social media strategy, team management, etc?


Zoom Out to Processes


Next, let's talk about processes. Processes are the specific steps or actions that are taken to achieve a specific goal or task. They're the "how" of a business, as opposed to the "what" (the strategy). Processes can be broken down into smaller procedures, which are more specific, step-by-step instructions for completing a task. Having well-defined processes in place can help to ensure consistency and quality in the work produced. When working with clients, the process is an integral part of creating the steps needed for the business; It ensures one misses nothing: not the scope, not where the endpoints are, and not the people responsible for completing them.



"A good strategy informs the processes, procedures, and workflows that are put in place, and in turn the systems that are used to support them. And the processes, procedures, and workflows, then inform and support the strategy."

Work it out with Workflows


Fourth, workflows. Workflows are the sequence of tasks and processes that make up a larger project or goal. They're used to map out the steps that need to be taken and the order in which they need to be completed. Workflows can be visualized using flowcharts or diagrams, which can help to clearly communicate the steps involved to team members. They also help in identifying bottlenecks, delays, and areas for improvement in the work process.


Perfect it with Procedures


Third, let's talk about procedures. Procedures are step-by-step instructions for completing a task. They are specific and detailed, and they help to ensure that work is completed in a consistent and efficient manner. They also help to ensure that everyone is on the same page in terms of how a task should be completed.


Set it with Systems


Systems are the tools and technologies that are used to support and automate processes and workflows. They can include things like project management software, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and automation tools. Systems are designed to make processes more efficient and effective, and can help to streamline communication and collaboration within a team. They also help in gathering and analyzing data which can be used to make data-driven decisions.


Eureka; It's all Connected!


Now that we've covered the key elements of strategy, processes, procedures, workflows, and systems, it's important to note what you may have realized already- that they are all interconnected. Yup! A good strategy informs the processes, procedures, and workflows that are put in place, and in turn the systems that are used to support them. And the processes, procedures, and workflows, then inform and support the strategy. By understanding and managing these elements in a holistic way, a business can achieve better results.


In closing...


Strategy, processes, procedures, workflows, and systems are all important components of business management. A clear strategy guides the company's overall direction, processes and procedures provide a step-by-step approach to achieving goals, workflows map out the sequence of tasks, and systems support and automate the process. By breaking down the management of a business into these smaller components, it can be easier to understand and manage, and ultimately lead to better results. Want to learn more about how these terms can MASSIVELY improve how you run your business? Click Here to book a FREE discovery call!

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