Focus on the process, not the result is advice that can be easily misconstrued.

The result we want, in chess, business, charity, is to win. For a nonprofit providing direct services, victory means delivering the best possible outcome to the population it exists to serve. In business, it means satisfying the customer better than the competitors.

And we all know that results can’t be improved “directly.” We can only optimize results by improving the processes that produce them. This is why we have sayings like,

Don’t focus on the result. Focus on the process that creates the result.

However, "focus on the process" can easily devolve into an emphasis of compliance with an overriding, time-consuming, and resource-depleting process.

The right process brings the right results.

The key word here is "right". Just because we have a robust process in place, it doesn't mean it's right--or appropriate in all circumstances. We should be obsessed with improving our processes, not blindly following them.

Let's Discuss the "Focus on the Process" Mindset

While focusing on the process is essential for achieving desired outcomes, avoiding a rigid, bureaucratic approach that stifles innovation and adaptability is crucial.

Here are some additional points to consider:

1. Process as a Tool, Not a Straitjacket: A well-designed process is a framework to guide actions, but it should be flexible enough to adapt to changing circumstances. Rigid adherence to a process can hinder creativity and prevent teams from seizing opportunities.
2. Continuous Improvement: The goal should be to refine and optimize processes continuously. This involves regular evaluation, feedback, and experimentation. A mindset of "good enough" is counterproductive.
3. Alignment with Goals: The process should be aligned with the organization's overarching goals and objectives. A process that is efficient but doesn't contribute to the desired outcome is ultimately ineffective.
4. Employee Engagement: Involve employees in process design and improvement. This fosters a sense of ownership and can lead to more effective and innovative solutions.
5. Data-Driven Decision Making: Use data to measure process effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. This helps to ensure that processes are evidence-based and not based on assumptions or anecdotes.

In essence, the "focus on the process" mindset should be balanced with a focus on results. A well-designed and continuously improved process is a powerful tool for achieving desired outcomes, but it should not become an end in itself. By striking the right balance, organizations can maximize their effectiveness and achieve their goals.

A process that is too rigid can hinder progress and lead to suboptimal outcomes. If you find yourself frequently needing to deviate from the process to achieve desired results, it's a strong indication that the process itself needs to be reevaluated.

Here are some additional considerations:

• Process Flexibility: A balance between structure and flexibility is key. Processes should provide a framework while allowing for adaptation in specific situations.
• Continuous Evaluation: Regularly assess the effectiveness of the process and make adjustments as needed. This might involve simplifying steps, adding new ones, or changing the sequence.
• Feedback Loops: Incorporate mechanisms for feedback from employees, customers, and other stakeholders. This can help identify areas where the process is falling short.
• Risk Assessment: When considering deviations from the process, assess the potential risks and benefits. A calculated departure might be necessary to achieve a critical objective.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a process that is both efficient and effective in achieving desired outcomes. A process that is too inflexible or too rigid is likely to hinder progress and lead to suboptimal results.
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Source material from LinkedIn original post by - Adriana Beal [Lead Data Scientist]