Computer people think systemically. What data do we have to work on? What transformations need to be made to that data to get the output we require. What resources do those transformations require?

That’s the essence of systemizing. For a very basic (I mean very) approach to using systems in a company read “The E-Myth Revisited” by Michael Gerber.

Peter Bowen, who posted above, sells an interesting tool on his web site that provides systems for very small companies in a cookie cutter fashion which can be helpful in the right situation. http://www.nomore247.com/

My grid provides a basic list of the systems required in most businesses (at a high level) Many sub-systems are usually required but at the sub-system level they are not the same for every company. The grid can be downloaded at http://thesmallbusinesscoach.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2006/06/Grid.pdf

Hope that helps. If you find a good book on the topic, shoot me an email about it.

Nick

I specialize in helping small businesses to systemize. One of the biggest challenges we see is that the job seems so overwhelming that people don’t even want to start even though they can see the advantages like those you’ve pointed out.

Most business owners will get a fairly quick return on the investment of their time if they first tackle those areas that typically cost them the most in time and energy. These are usually marketing and debt collecting. Show me a small business owner who doesn’t want more clients and faster payment!

Pick the “low hanging fruit”

Cheers

Pete Bowen