Could Zero-Based Thinking Increase Your Profits?

 

Have you ever found yourself questioning why every department seems to perform routine tasks a little (or a lot) differently? Often times, processes are developed out of necessity instead of being crafted strategically. The result is a patchwork of systems, processes, and policies that are inconsistent and inefficient. Instead of accepting a stagnant mentality of ‘this is the way things are done,’ an increasing number of executives are leveraging Zero-Based Thinking – a powerful business leadership tool that encourages innovative decision-making and creative problem solving.

What Is Zero-Based Thinking?

It’s easy to get caught in the trap of “we do it this way because it’s always been done this way” or “this process was developed when we had to overcome that challenge.” Zero-based thinking is designed to help business owners objectively evaluate their company by removing the historical element of why your business does what it does.

Let’s take a stroll outside of your operational business mindset for a moment. Step back and ask yourself:

With the knowledge I have now,
would I choose to make the same business decisions?

In other words, if you had to do it all over again, is there any part of your business that – knowing what you know now – you wouldn’t choose to incorporate again or would change significantly? These answers may be the key for unlocking increased profits, improved productivity, and a stronger relationship with clients and customers.

How Do I Implement Zero-Based Thinking?

Consider all aspects of your business – especially product, price, promotion, place, packaging, positioning and people (a.k.a. The 7 Ps of Marketing) – in terms of the zero-based thinking question. Let go of the reasons each element currently operates as it does, and instead ask yourself:

• Is it working for where we are right now?
• Are we getting the results we want?
• Are we generating sales, revenues and positive cash flow?

If not, it’s time to change or even abandon the aspects that have become a burden – plain and simple.

At FocalPoint Canada, our team of certified business coaches guide business owners and executives (just like you) through the process of implementing zero-based thinking to objectively evaluate each aspect of their business, and we help to create a strategic plan for cutting dead weight, maximizing productivity, and establishing efficient processes and systems. If you’re ready for more than general business tips, we’re ready to get to work – creating customized solutions for overcoming your challenges.

Get Started with FocalPoint Canada

At FocalPoint Canada, we guide our clients in overcoming challenges and leveraging opportunities with proven processes and methodologies that have been used by thousands of successful businesses over the past two decades. Our FocalPoint business coaches use their expertise to teach our time-tested methods through individual coaching, group sessions, or trainings and workshops.