The 3 Steps for Creating Clarity in Your Agency Operations, With Melissa Morris
Dec 13, 2023
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Melissa Morris, agency operations expert, discusses the importance of operations in agency success, common challenges agencies face, the issue of scope creep, team clarity and training, integrating operations early, starting with a conversation when dealing with agency owners, focusing on the desired output and quality of project management tools, documenting processes, her DISCO framework for refining workflows and processes, the right time to create SOPs, team training, and the importance of the tool stack and addressing team training.
To prevent scope creep and improve profitability, agencies should clearly define the scope of work and ensure clients and team members understand project boundaries.
Effective project management and timely completion of projects increase an agency's capacity to take on more work and maximize profitability.
Deep dives
The Impact of Scope Creep on Profitability
Scope creep, which refers to doing work that is outside the agreed-upon scope of work without being properly compensated, can severely impact an agency's profitability. This additional work may not be billed to the client, but it still consumes valuable time and resources. To address scope creep, agencies should clearly define their scope of work, outline deliverables, and ensure that both clients and their own team members understand the boundaries of the project. By managing scope creep, agencies can prevent wasted time and efforts, ultimately improving their bottom line.
The Importance of Timely Project Management
Allowing projects to stall or spending excessive time on them can significantly impact an agency's profitability. When projects take longer than expected, it hampers the agency's ability to take on new projects, consume more team resources, and may lead to missed opportunities. By effectively managing project timelines and ensuring that projects move forward efficiently, agencies can increase their capacity to take on more work and maximize their profitability.
The Drawbacks of Inefficient Communication
Poor communication within an agency can lead to decreased profitability. Constant back-and-forth communication, endless emails, and unclear instructions can waste valuable time that could be better spent on productive work. By streamlining communication and using project management tools to centralize project information, agencies can reduce the time spent on unnecessary meetings, emails, and coordination. Efficient communication leads to improved productivity and increased profitability.
The Importance of Clear Processes and Documentation
Lack of clarity in processes and documentation can hamper an agency's efficiency and profitability. When team members are unclear about their roles, responsibilities, and the steps involved in executing tasks, it can result in confusion, mistakes, and wasted time. Agencies should focus on refining and streamlining workflows before documenting them. Once a process has been tested and proven effective, it can be properly documented and shared with the team. Clear processes and documentation empower team members, reduce errors, and improve overall agency efficiency and profitability.