2014
Our 50th Episode
October 20, 2014
Martin Ramsay celebrates his 50th video blog! Give us your feedback. What would you like Martin to talk about in future episodes?
If you want to encourage these video blogs to keep appearing, please fill out the Sign Me Up! box and you'll never miss another video.
Also, be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
If you want to encourage these video blogs to keep appearing, please fill out the Sign Me Up! box and you'll never miss another video.
Also, be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Strategic Technique for Rapid Application Prototyping
October 13, 2014
CEATH Company's strategic technique for rapid application prototyping (STRAP) is a tool used to develop systems quickly with the client looking on and giving feedback as the system development unfolds. STRAP is a real-time implementation of the five principles of business information technology deployment discussed over the past five video blogs.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries. And be sure and sign up to receive notifications when a new video is released. Fill out the Sign Me Up! box and you'll never miss another video.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries. And be sure and sign up to receive notifications when a new video is released. Fill out the Sign Me Up! box and you'll never miss another video.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Principles of Information Technology 5 of 5
October 06, 2014
Has your organization ever experienced the agony of a software implementation -- after the previous one didn't go so well? Do you ever feel like your company is in a vicious circle of software implementation after software implementation?
The fifth principle of Business Information Technology Deployment deals directly with this issue. In this video blog, Martin Ramsay discusses how information systems must be constructed in such a way that they can grow and change, just as our organizations grow and change. Easier said than done, but an important facet of building technology that will not automatically become obsolete.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries. And be sure and sign up to receive notifications when a new video is released. Fill out the Sign Me Up! box and you'll never miss another video.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
The fifth principle of Business Information Technology Deployment deals directly with this issue. In this video blog, Martin Ramsay discusses how information systems must be constructed in such a way that they can grow and change, just as our organizations grow and change. Easier said than done, but an important facet of building technology that will not automatically become obsolete.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries. And be sure and sign up to receive notifications when a new video is released. Fill out the Sign Me Up! box and you'll never miss another video.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Principles of Information Technology 4 of 5
September 29, 2014
Have you ever felt like your data was being held hostage by your information system? You know your data is in there, but you just can't get the information system to give it to you.
In this fourth episode in a series on the five principles Business Information Technology Deployment, Martin Ramsay discusses how we get information OUT of our systems. The third principle focused on capturing data IN to the system. The fourth principle focuses on obtaining access to that data in useful ways to better support business strategies and decision-making. The idea is to turn raw data, locked away inside an information system, into information we can use.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries. And be sure and sign up to receive notifications when a new video is released. Fill out the Sign Me Up! box and you'll never miss another video.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
In this fourth episode in a series on the five principles Business Information Technology Deployment, Martin Ramsay discusses how we get information OUT of our systems. The third principle focused on capturing data IN to the system. The fourth principle focuses on obtaining access to that data in useful ways to better support business strategies and decision-making. The idea is to turn raw data, locked away inside an information system, into information we can use.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries. And be sure and sign up to receive notifications when a new video is released. Fill out the Sign Me Up! box and you'll never miss another video.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Principles of Information Technology 3 of 5
September 22, 2014
Shoshana Zuboff of Harvard coined a term in the 1980s by combining "information" with "automate" to create "informate." A process is "informated" when it both accomplishes a business purpose while at the same time gathering data for the organization.
This is the third in a series of five dedicated to the five principles of Business Information Technology Deployment. The second principle is that "the Business Information Technology System should be informated so that processes require less effort than other systems, creating data that is timely and accurate." In this brief video Martin Ramsay discusses the idea of informating business processes, how to make sure that those processes are used, and some of the techniques used to accomplish that purpose. Watch this video to learn more about how you can help your organization informate processes by following the third principle of Business Information Technology Deployment.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries. And be sure and sign up to receive notifications when a new video is released. Fill out the Sign Me Up! box and you'll never miss another video.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
This is the third in a series of five dedicated to the five principles of Business Information Technology Deployment. The second principle is that "the Business Information Technology System should be informated so that processes require less effort than other systems, creating data that is timely and accurate." In this brief video Martin Ramsay discusses the idea of informating business processes, how to make sure that those processes are used, and some of the techniques used to accomplish that purpose. Watch this video to learn more about how you can help your organization informate processes by following the third principle of Business Information Technology Deployment.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries. And be sure and sign up to receive notifications when a new video is released. Fill out the Sign Me Up! box and you'll never miss another video.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Principles of Information Technology 2 of 5
September 15, 2014
When it comes to minimizing risk, redundancy is a good thing. But, in the field of Business Information Technology Deployment, redundancy is bad.
This is the second in a series of five dedicated to the five principles of Business Information Technology Deployment. The second principle is that "the Business Information Technology System must be non-redundant." In this brief video Martin Ramsay discusses why redundancy (not to be confused with a backup of an information system) is counter-productive, adding cost, decreasing accuracy, and causing many more problems. So many organizations routinely violate this principle to their detriment. Watch this video to learn more about how you can help your organization become more effective by following the second principle of Business Information Technology Deployment.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries. And be sure and sign up to receive notifications when a new video is released. Fill out the Sign Me Up! box and you'll never miss another video.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
This is the second in a series of five dedicated to the five principles of Business Information Technology Deployment. The second principle is that "the Business Information Technology System must be non-redundant." In this brief video Martin Ramsay discusses why redundancy (not to be confused with a backup of an information system) is counter-productive, adding cost, decreasing accuracy, and causing many more problems. So many organizations routinely violate this principle to their detriment. Watch this video to learn more about how you can help your organization become more effective by following the second principle of Business Information Technology Deployment.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries. And be sure and sign up to receive notifications when a new video is released. Fill out the Sign Me Up! box and you'll never miss another video.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Principles of Information Technology 1 of 5
September 08, 2014
This video bog begins a series of five about Martin Ramsay's five principles of Business Information Technology Deployment.
The first principle is that "the Business Information Technology System must model the business it serves." In this brief video Martin discusses why this simple concept is so foundational to understanding and effectively deploying any technology system. Organizations routinely violate this principle, either by poorly modeling the business in the information system, and/or by failing to recognize that the information technology system must serve the organization (and not the other way around).
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
The first principle is that "the Business Information Technology System must model the business it serves." In this brief video Martin discusses why this simple concept is so foundational to understanding and effectively deploying any technology system. Organizations routinely violate this principle, either by poorly modeling the business in the information system, and/or by failing to recognize that the information technology system must serve the organization (and not the other way around).
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Minimizing Risk
August 25, 2014
What do you think about risk? Are you someone who secretly enjoys risk? Or do you play it safe?
Martin Ramsay doesn't think we can ever eliminate risk. But, when it comes to business processes, we certainly can and should take steps to minimize it. In this brief video, Martin describes a simple "formula" he uses to think about process risk and the potential for negative consequences. The key is to start by recognizing where potential failures could occur, thus identifying points of risk.
Watch this video to get Martin's thoughts on his simple risk minimization formula and how it might apply to your work.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Martin Ramsay doesn't think we can ever eliminate risk. But, when it comes to business processes, we certainly can and should take steps to minimize it. In this brief video, Martin describes a simple "formula" he uses to think about process risk and the potential for negative consequences. The key is to start by recognizing where potential failures could occur, thus identifying points of risk.
Watch this video to get Martin's thoughts on his simple risk minimization formula and how it might apply to your work.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
The Secret Life of Hummingbirds
August 18, 2014
Do you get all worked up over things that, in the long run, are just not that important? The secret life of hummingbirds can shed some light on having a broader perspective.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Digging into Data
August 11, 2014
We are in the age of "big data." Awash with data, we're not always able to make sense of it.
In this week's video blog, Martin Ramsay provides a simple example of a way to look at data to tease meaning and information out of a mass of numbers. See if you can spot what is going on with the data examples before Martin reveals the answer at the end.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
In this week's video blog, Martin Ramsay provides a simple example of a way to look at data to tease meaning and information out of a mass of numbers. See if you can spot what is going on with the data examples before Martin reveals the answer at the end.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Putting Salt in their Oats
August 04, 2014
Complete this sentence: "You can lead a horse to water, but ..."
If you live in the USA, you probably know this adage. It speaks to human motivation and the limits to our ability to force anyone to do what we want them to do. A recent experience at CEATH Company's Pedagogy and Technology Conference leads Martin Ramsay to think about what his grandmother used to add to that old saying. Grandma Ramsay's addition puts a different spin on motivation. But you'll have to watch the video to find out what it is.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
If you live in the USA, you probably know this adage. It speaks to human motivation and the limits to our ability to force anyone to do what we want them to do. A recent experience at CEATH Company's Pedagogy and Technology Conference leads Martin Ramsay to think about what his grandmother used to add to that old saying. Grandma Ramsay's addition puts a different spin on motivation. But you'll have to watch the video to find out what it is.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Three Ways to Think Like a Consultant
July 28, 2014
Opportunities to "think like a consultant" abound. Using an example from a family reunion, Martin Ramsay discusses the three keys to thinking like a consultant:
1. Observe the client's pain
2. Identify the tool(s) that will help
3. Offer your service
Everyone should think like a consultant, even in unexpected places like a family reunion.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
1. Observe the client's pain
2. Identify the tool(s) that will help
3. Offer your service
Everyone should think like a consultant, even in unexpected places like a family reunion.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Contracts Done Right
July 21, 2014
How do you view contracts? Many people seem to view contracts as the basis upon which they might sue the other party should there be a breach of the agreement. But Martin Ramsay sees it differently. He make the case in this video blog that a contract is actually an opportunity for transparency. By putting down on paper, with as much clarity as possible, what both parties intend to bring to the business relationship, participants in a contract can come to a much better understanding of their expectations of each other.
A contract shouldn't be seen as a method for legal action, but as an opportunity for clarity and understanding.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
A contract shouldn't be seen as a method for legal action, but as an opportunity for clarity and understanding.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Doing Business Like a Partner
July 14, 2014
How do you do business? Do you view other companies and organizations with which you do business with suspicion, as potential adversaries? Or do you view your business partners as true partners, committed to your success just as you are committed to theirs?
In this video blog, Martin Ramsay discusses doing business like a partner and what that would mean for how we treat others.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
In this video blog, Martin Ramsay discusses doing business like a partner and what that would mean for how we treat others.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Reminders from the Resilient Robins
July 07, 2014
Are you feeling discouraged? Are things not going quite your way?
Learn a lessons from a pair of robins in the backyard who suffered some rather serious setbacks, but showed real grit and tenacity in overcoming adversity.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Learn a lessons from a pair of robins in the backyard who suffered some rather serious setbacks, but showed real grit and tenacity in overcoming adversity.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Check Your Customer Attitude
June 30, 2014
How do you view your customers? Do you see them as intelligent and informed, as people who you want to help make the right purchasing decision for them? Or do you view them with veiled distain, hoping to push them into purchasing something they may or may not want to buy?
The availability of information on the internet about our products and services is viewed by many with alarm: our customers know too much! But that point of view reveals how poorly we view our customers. In this video blog, Martin Ramsay uses the example of a small arts and crafts retailer to dig into the issue of our attitude toward our customers.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
The availability of information on the internet about our products and services is viewed by many with alarm: our customers know too much! But that point of view reveals how poorly we view our customers. In this video blog, Martin Ramsay uses the example of a small arts and crafts retailer to dig into the issue of our attitude toward our customers.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Build Internal Capabilities
June 23, 2014
One of CEATH Company's dozen or so basic operating principles involves "building internal capabilities." We want to see our clients better able to solve their own problems after an engagement with us than they were before we came. If we fail in that regard, then we have failed as consultants.
So many consultants don't understand this principle. They prefer to build a culture of dependency, one in which it becomes necessary for the client to call the consultant back, again and again. That may be good for business in the short term, but it is not good for the health of the client nor for the overall relationship in the long term.
The same thinking could be applied to companies and customers, governments and citizens, therapists and patients, and more. Watch this week's video blog to get Martin Ramsay's thoughts on building internal capability.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
So many consultants don't understand this principle. They prefer to build a culture of dependency, one in which it becomes necessary for the client to call the consultant back, again and again. That may be good for business in the short term, but it is not good for the health of the client nor for the overall relationship in the long term.
The same thinking could be applied to companies and customers, governments and citizens, therapists and patients, and more. Watch this week's video blog to get Martin Ramsay's thoughts on building internal capability.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Goodbye Coldwater Creek
June 16, 2014
What happened to Coldwater Creek? According to the company web site, "On April 11, 2014, Coldwater Creek filed for bankruptcy in order to facilitate an orderly wind-down of our operations." The move was required because "the Company and its advisors were unable to find a potential buyer for the Company or a source of capital to provide adequate liquidity to fund the Company's ongoing strategic turnaround initiatives."
What happened to the company? In this video blog, Martin Ramsay considers some of the possible reasons for Coldwater Creek's untimely demise. A clue came from a 70 year old clerk who has worked for Coldwater Creek for ten years. Watch this blog to learn what she said. Then judge for yourself whether or not she is on to something ... and what it might mean for your organization.
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Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
What happened to the company? In this video blog, Martin Ramsay considers some of the possible reasons for Coldwater Creek's untimely demise. A clue came from a 70 year old clerk who has worked for Coldwater Creek for ten years. Watch this blog to learn what she said. Then judge for yourself whether or not she is on to something ... and what it might mean for your organization.
post a comment (powered by Disqus)
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Unintended Consequences
June 09, 2014
"Be careful what you measure, because you may actually get it." In this video blog, Martin Ramsay counters conventional wisdom that says you should measure what you hope to accomplish.
There is truth in the idea of measuring what you expect to achieve, that you should "inspect what you expect." But sometimes the result has unintended consequence. Using a very real example from a CEATH Company manufacturing client, Martin suggests that measurements that are not extremely well thought out do not always achieve the desired goal and instead, drive organizational behavior toward something than is unintended, even counterproductive.
Be sure to use the cloud of tags to the right to find other related videos. For example, The Catfish Principle discusses being clear about your organization's purpose and Is Your Mission Your North Star? points out the role of an organization's mission in achieving its goals.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
There is truth in the idea of measuring what you expect to achieve, that you should "inspect what you expect." But sometimes the result has unintended consequence. Using a very real example from a CEATH Company manufacturing client, Martin suggests that measurements that are not extremely well thought out do not always achieve the desired goal and instead, drive organizational behavior toward something than is unintended, even counterproductive.
Be sure to use the cloud of tags to the right to find other related videos. For example, The Catfish Principle discusses being clear about your organization's purpose and Is Your Mission Your North Star? points out the role of an organization's mission in achieving its goals.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
A Cat is a Process
June 02, 2014
A cat is a process, right? Well ... yes and no. In a way, everything is a process. But is that really being fair to the cat?
In this video blog, Martin reflects on an amusing cartoon he saw years ago and draws some conclusions about process as he does so.
Be sure to use the cloud of tags to the right to find other related videos. For example, The Woodshed is a Process and More Details about Process both help us understand processes better.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
In this video blog, Martin reflects on an amusing cartoon he saw years ago and draws some conclusions about process as he does so.
Be sure to use the cloud of tags to the right to find other related videos. For example, The Woodshed is a Process and More Details about Process both help us understand processes better.
Be sure and check out Martin's previous blog entries.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Enjoying Your Work
May 26, 2014
Do you enjoy your work? Surprisingly, many people say that they do not. Why is that? Is work supposed to be onerous and miserable? Or can it be meaningful and fulfilling?
Not all work is perfect all the time of course. But shouldn't our work be something we enjoy, at least the majority of the time?
This video blog uses a woman working in the florist department of a big box grocery store as an example of how we can enjoy our work. At least most of the time!
Be sure and check out other blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Not all work is perfect all the time of course. But shouldn't our work be something we enjoy, at least the majority of the time?
This video blog uses a woman working in the florist department of a big box grocery store as an example of how we can enjoy our work. At least most of the time!
Be sure and check out other blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Force Field Analysis
May 19, 2014
The Force Field Analysis tool is a simple yet powerful technique for analyzing the forces for and against a change. When beginning any change journey, it is wise to look at all the forces that will help you implement the change, and all those forces that are arrayed agains it. In this blog, Martin Ramsay shows us how to construct a Force Field Analysis and discusses some of the ways to use the analysis for making change.
Other video blogs that discuss change and the tools for change include Do People Resist Change?, The Merlin Technique, and The Factory on a Desk-Top™.
Be sure and check out other blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Other video blogs that discuss change and the tools for change include Do People Resist Change?, The Merlin Technique, and The Factory on a Desk-Top™.
Be sure and check out other blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
The Factory on a Desk-Top™
May 12, 2014
Have you ever wished you had a good way to help people understand the complexities of how system work together and how they drive human behavior? Have you ever wished for a way to talk about process improvement in a tangible way? Look no further than this week's video about CEATH Company's Factory on a Desk-Top™, a simulated factory in which everyone has a role and the results can be measured.
The Factory on a Desk-Top™ is loads of fun as people work with Lego® bricks, Monopoly® money and poker chips to figure out how to improve processes.
As you watch this video, think about process in your organization and how you can dissect them for improvement.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
The Factory on a Desk-Top™ is loads of fun as people work with Lego® bricks, Monopoly® money and poker chips to figure out how to improve processes.
As you watch this video, think about process in your organization and how you can dissect them for improvement.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Use the Right Tool
May 05, 2014
Martin Ramsay emphasizes the importance of tools in our work using three tools familiar to a woodshed. He makes the point that we need to a) have the right tools for our work, b) learn how to use them well, and c) not be seduced into thinking that bigger, more expensive, or more complex tools are always the best.
As you watch this video, think about the tools you use in your work, wether they be a spreadsheet or a laser welder, and how you can use them most effectively.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
As you watch this video, think about the tools you use in your work, wether they be a spreadsheet or a laser welder, and how you can use them most effectively.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
The Dangers of Becoming Risk Adverse
April 28, 2014
Continuing the complacency theme begun last week, Martin Ramsay talks about the dangers of becoming risk adverse in our work. Too much complacency has the potential for making us lazy and risk adverse, which may cause us to overlook new opportunities.
Martin encourages us to live a bit closer to reality, allowing ourselves the opportunity to fail. Only then can we also have the potential for great successes.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Martin encourages us to live a bit closer to reality, allowing ourselves the opportunity to fail. Only then can we also have the potential for great successes.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Complacency and Exposure to the Elements
April 21, 2014
Are you in danger of becoming too complacent in your work? The recent cold weather reminds us we all have vulnerabilities. Were it not for a warm place to live and work, we would be at the mercy of the elements.
In this blog, Martin Ramsay discusses why we might not want to allow ourselves to become too complacent.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
In this blog, Martin Ramsay discusses why we might not want to allow ourselves to become too complacent.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Content vs. Process
April 14, 2014
A CEATH Company client once said, "I don't care about process. I only care about results!"
Such an attitude is naive at best. A good process gives the best opportunity for delivering the desired results. Ignoring process most likely will not deliver the results you want.
In this blog, Martin Ramsay discusses the difference between content and process.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Such an attitude is naive at best. A good process gives the best opportunity for delivering the desired results. Ignoring process most likely will not deliver the results you want.
In this blog, Martin Ramsay discusses the difference between content and process.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
When You Make a Mistake
April 07, 2014
Have you ever made a mistake? Martin Ramsay sure has! He uses two recent mistakes he's made as an opportunity to apologize and to discuss what we should do when we find out we've goofed.
When you make a mistake: accept responsibility, apologize, reach the people who have been affected, do it promptly, and make it right.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
When you make a mistake: accept responsibility, apologize, reach the people who have been affected, do it promptly, and make it right.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
The Newark Experience
March 31, 2014
A recent experience in the Newark airport causes Martin Ramsay to reflect on what NOT to do when it comes to process effectiveness. This video blog focuses on four key points for making sure that processes are as good as they can be.
Don't give your customers, your colleagues, or your company the "Newark Experience!"
Also, be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Don't give your customers, your colleagues, or your company the "Newark Experience!"
Also, be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Efficiency and Effectiveness
March 24, 2014
This is the second of a two-part series about processes. In this video blog, Martin Ramsay ask whether efficiency is the same a effectiveness in a process. The answer is "no" -- the two are not the same. Martin explains why, which leads to a discussion again about the importance of purpose and knowing where your processes are going.
This video blog is part two of two parts. Review Video Blog 20 for a discussion of processes in general and the components that go into making a process.
Also, be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
This video blog is part two of two parts. Review Video Blog 20 for a discussion of processes in general and the components that go into making a process.
Also, be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
More Details about Process
March 17, 2014
This video blog, complete with diagrams, goes into some detail about what makes up a process. Martin Ramsay introduces a simple graphic model that makes the major components of a process easier to understand.
The fact that the woodshed is empty this one time of the year helps emphasize the components of a process as Martin stands in the middle of one.
This video blog is part one of two parts. Watch for Video Blog 21 that discusses the difference between efficient processes and effective ones.
Also, be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
The fact that the woodshed is empty this one time of the year helps emphasize the components of a process as Martin stands in the middle of one.
This video blog is part one of two parts. Watch for Video Blog 21 that discusses the difference between efficient processes and effective ones.
Also, be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Is Your Mission Your North Star?
March 10, 2014
In this video blog, Martin Ramsay asks a fundamental question: is your mission your north star? In other words, does your mission statement guide your organization in times of crisis, or when an important strategic decision needs to be made?
If the answer is, "Not really," or even, "I'm not sure," then maybe it is time to take a hard look at your mission statement. If your mission statement doesn't guide you through the rough waters of organizational change, then perhaps it isn't providing a mission for you at all.
If your organization's culture is not to use your mission statement to guide you in making the tough calls, then either you need a new mission statement, or you need to get back to what really matters for your organization. You need to find your organization's "Catfish Principle."
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
If the answer is, "Not really," or even, "I'm not sure," then maybe it is time to take a hard look at your mission statement. If your mission statement doesn't guide you through the rough waters of organizational change, then perhaps it isn't providing a mission for you at all.
If your organization's culture is not to use your mission statement to guide you in making the tough calls, then either you need a new mission statement, or you need to get back to what really matters for your organization. You need to find your organization's "Catfish Principle."
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
The Catfish Principle
March 03, 2014
The "catfish principle" is being very clear about your organization's purpose.
In earlier blogs, Martin Ramsay has discussed the importance of knowing where you're going, of having a vision for the future, of being clear about your organizational mission. While traveling on business in central Florida, Martin and his wife, the fabulous redhead, stumbled across a locally owned restaurant that demonstrates this concept clearly. The Catfish Place in Kissimmee, Florida is very clear about its purpose, and states that purpose right on its menu.
Watch this video blog to see the "catfish principle" in action.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
In earlier blogs, Martin Ramsay has discussed the importance of knowing where you're going, of having a vision for the future, of being clear about your organizational mission. While traveling on business in central Florida, Martin and his wife, the fabulous redhead, stumbled across a locally owned restaurant that demonstrates this concept clearly. The Catfish Place in Kissimmee, Florida is very clear about its purpose, and states that purpose right on its menu.
Watch this video blog to see the "catfish principle" in action.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
The Woodshed is a Process
February 24, 2014
Martin Ramsay talks a lot about process in his Notes From the Woodshed video blog. But did you know that the woodshed itself is a process?
In this video blog, Martin Ramsay shows how the woodshed process works, what its inputs and outputs are, and the ultimate purpose of the "woodshed process." Along the way, he helps us see processes in other everyday things, setting us up to help improve processes wherever we are.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
In this video blog, Martin Ramsay shows how the woodshed process works, what its inputs and outputs are, and the ultimate purpose of the "woodshed process." Along the way, he helps us see processes in other everyday things, setting us up to help improve processes wherever we are.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Unchanging Principles
February 17, 2014
In a world where change seems to be the only constant, are there things that do not change? We often say that the only things we can know for certain will happen are death and taxes. But surely there is more to it than that, isn't there?
In this video blog, Martin Ramsay uses a winter snow storm as an object lesson for thinking about change -- and things that don't change. He challenges us to consider if there are things that are unchanging and immutable in the face of a world where change is a constant reality.
Discovering principles that are non-negotiable, unchanging constants is an important life skill for everyone to develop. This video blog challenges us to go on that voyage of discovery.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
In this video blog, Martin Ramsay uses a winter snow storm as an object lesson for thinking about change -- and things that don't change. He challenges us to consider if there are things that are unchanging and immutable in the face of a world where change is a constant reality.
Discovering principles that are non-negotiable, unchanging constants is an important life skill for everyone to develop. This video blog challenges us to go on that voyage of discovery.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
The Merlin Technique
February 10, 2014
Which is harder: to imagine the future you hope to create, or to figure out the path to get there?
You'll have to watch this video blog to find out, but here's a hint: the Merlin Technique is a clever way to help yourself and others figure out the path to a desired future. Along the way, you might even find yourself being motivated to get started on moving toward that vision of the future right now. Martin Ramsay discusses how to use the Merlin Technique as a way to describe that winding path that leads to where you want to go.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
You'll have to watch this video blog to find out, but here's a hint: the Merlin Technique is a clever way to help yourself and others figure out the path to a desired future. Along the way, you might even find yourself being motivated to get started on moving toward that vision of the future right now. Martin Ramsay discusses how to use the Merlin Technique as a way to describe that winding path that leads to where you want to go.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Mind Mapping
February 03, 2014
This week's video blog focuses in on a specific tool: mind mapping.
As Martin Ramsay noted in earlier video blogs, helping get people to be explicit about their own mental models is a vital skill. People often have mental models about a given situation, process or goal, and these may even be mental models of which they are mostly unaware. When there are significant differences between mental models, conflict can arise. And people may not even understand the source of those conflicts because they are unaware of the underlying mental models — both in their own heads and in the heads of others.
Martin Ramsay discusses using a tool called mind mapping to draw those mental models out of people's heads and into the light where everyone can see and understand them. He demonstrates how to use the mind mapping tool and give one example application from his consulting work at CEATH Company.
What seems a bit out of line, over the top, or not quite right at your organization? What do your consulting instincts tell you about finding out more. Perhaps you'll discover the key that unlocks a new level of productivity and effectiveness for your team!
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
As Martin Ramsay noted in earlier video blogs, helping get people to be explicit about their own mental models is a vital skill. People often have mental models about a given situation, process or goal, and these may even be mental models of which they are mostly unaware. When there are significant differences between mental models, conflict can arise. And people may not even understand the source of those conflicts because they are unaware of the underlying mental models — both in their own heads and in the heads of others.
Martin Ramsay discusses using a tool called mind mapping to draw those mental models out of people's heads and into the light where everyone can see and understand them. He demonstrates how to use the mind mapping tool and give one example application from his consulting work at CEATH Company.
What seems a bit out of line, over the top, or not quite right at your organization? What do your consulting instincts tell you about finding out more. Perhaps you'll discover the key that unlocks a new level of productivity and effectiveness for your team!
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Developing Your Consulting Instinct
January 27, 2014
Martin Ramsay suggests that everyone, regardless of their job title, should think of themselves as a consultant. A consultant's job is to look at an organization, its vision, systems and people, and to figure out ways to improve them. Consultants should always be about making things better.
In this video, Martin uses the common advertisements for flu vaccines as an example of how consultants might develop their consulting instincts. When something seems a bit out of line or over the top, a consultant's instincts will say, "Find out more. Look deeper. Find out what's behind the scenes." The ubiquity of flu vaccine advertising suggests there's more to this than just an opportunity to get vaccinated against the flu.
What seems a bit out of line, over the top, or not quite right at your organization? What do your consulting instincts tell you about finding out more. Perhaps you'll discover the key that unlocks a new level of productivity and effectiveness for your team!
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
In this video, Martin uses the common advertisements for flu vaccines as an example of how consultants might develop their consulting instincts. When something seems a bit out of line or over the top, a consultant's instincts will say, "Find out more. Look deeper. Find out what's behind the scenes." The ubiquity of flu vaccine advertising suggests there's more to this than just an opportunity to get vaccinated against the flu.
What seems a bit out of line, over the top, or not quite right at your organization? What do your consulting instincts tell you about finding out more. Perhaps you'll discover the key that unlocks a new level of productivity and effectiveness for your team!
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Mental Models
January 20, 2014
Martin Ramsay discusses the importance of "mental models." Mental models are the models, the ways of thinking about things, that people carry around inside their heads. The way they view reality, through the filter of their mental model, greatly affects behavior and the way people are able to interact and get work done. Working hard to understand people's mental models is an important thing to do. People are often not aware of their own mental models and often end up talking past each other as a result. The role of a consultant, either internal or external, it to work to bring these mental models out into the open to increase understanding.
This video blog focuses on the use of mental models in organizational change and the importance of describing a mental model for the future, for where the organization is going. The result is often called a mission statement or a vision statement; at their heart, mission and vision statements are mental models made public.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
This video blog focuses on the use of mental models in organizational change and the importance of describing a mental model for the future, for where the organization is going. The result is often called a mission statement or a vision statement; at their heart, mission and vision statements are mental models made public.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Paying More Than Expected
January 13, 2014
Martin Ramsay discusses a recent experience in which he ended up having to pay more than he expected. Even though he asked and was given a clear answer about the cost of a service, that proved incorrect and he had to pay more. Martin considers the processes behind the scenes that must be broken in order for this to have happened.
The fact that the service was a medical procedure and the fact that it cost more than expected will probably come as no surprise. What this experience tells us about how the healthcare delivery system works can provide lessons for any industry in which we offer services to customers.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
The fact that the service was a medical procedure and the fact that it cost more than expected will probably come as no surprise. What this experience tells us about how the healthcare delivery system works can provide lessons for any industry in which we offer services to customers.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
The Change Journey
January 06, 2014
Martin Ramsay continues the important theme of "change" begun in Blog 7. He emphasizes that knowing where you're going and having a vision for the future are vital if change is to be positive and successful. Today's blog talks about the change journey with focus on the end goal.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.
Be sure and check out earlier blog entries from the list on the right.
Sponsored by CEATH Company.