What I mean by this is the less physicality the better. The less which exists in the real world that you can touch and feel the more adaptable you will be. This includes offices, paper, equipment, vehicles, and stock. I understand that all businesses require a level of physicality – some more than others. However, you can choose how you structure these to be able to adapt more effectively.
Less physicality equates to more adaptability.
Some of the Key Tools to consider here are:
- Completely Paperless and Cloud-Based business
This is a key policy for all my businesses – to be totally paperless and fully cloud-based. Many entrepreneurs begin to tell me that it is different in their business and that is why this will not work. I have found there are not many businesses that can not either go here 100% if not for the majority of functions in their business. This will provide a greater foundation for being able to change and adapt.
- No Physical Office or Equipment
Depending on your business this may not be possible. I would suggest that you investigate this fully rather than adopt the view that “this is how it is done in our business line” Being open to these possibilities and ideas enables you to think more about what it could look like rather than what it looks like now. If you do need a physical office/presence how can this be structured best to assist in any changes or adapting that may be required. Thinking about this before you lock in would be the best time – may be difficult further down the track.
Had a client (and good friend) of mine that occupied a large office for over a decade. Lots of desks, phones, computers and a lot of paper and of course the storage and handling of all this stuff. It was just the way it was always done. He preferred to still have an office but totally changed the format and purpose of it. As a result of this he was able to reduce costs significantly, locate himself in a more strategic location, and as he moved his business to a paperless model was able to make it a more nimble and adaptive organisation.
A key benefit of the two steps above is to eliminate the need to have to find team members and resources in a specific location. This is a significant constraint when looking at growing your business. If you can find the best people from anywhere in your country or the world – then it will improve your ability to adapt and evolve if and when required.
Currently, in my various businesses, I have Team members and suppliers/partners located in over 10 countries.