Consistently Inconsistent

The problem. Everyone in every step of the way on any given day has their own approach to a system. Whenever new staff on-board the guidance is roughly outlined in the written procedure but, in actuality, it depends on the person who taught them. Then through the months and the years, the procedure morphs into whatever works for the particular person.

Working on a solution. When many people are involved and impacted by procedures, the system has to be refined and practical. Right now, I am working on updating the process and written procedures of a system at my agency and I’ve learned the only thing that is consistent is the inconsistency.

Incorporating all voices. I am interviewing the majority of people involved in the process and giving the biggest weight to those who deliver services rather than the administrators at the grantee. This is a practice that isn’t universal at my organization and I am hoping to flex my educational leadership muscles by creating buy-in from the bottom-up. At the grantee, we do need information to adhere to our reporting requirements but we have to be flexible and allow accommodation to those who are doing the job.

End result. I am hoping my draft and plan will be adopted but I have to be realistic and know that those at the grantee have a different lens. I will be happy if the delegate agencies see an improvement and if consistency is built by everyone understanding their expectations in the process.

I love refining processes. Dare I say it’s fun? I enjoy talking to people and making things better by problem solving. The writing isn’t my favorite though.

Hope you are adjusting to the time-change and can find time for fun this week!