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It's always been done that way!

Is there a phrase or saying that absolutely drives you crazy? For me it is “It’s always been done that way.”

I remember my first position as supervisor of a packaging group. At the time I had minimal experience with the company so I needed to learn, and was prone to first asking questions about why various business methods and processes were done the way they were. More often than not the answer I would get was “it’s always been done that way.”

What a poor response. If that had always been the case, Navies would still be sailing ships powered by wind and sails! And we’d not be enjoying the benefit of advances like re-sealable pouches or screw caps on wine bottles. Think about what response was given when those ideas were first presented.

Unfortunately the reason is that “it’s always been done that way” has too frequently become the rule by which decisions are made. No one questions that change parts need to be ordered when a new package is being introduced to a production line. But do they have the same attitude about business processes? I doubt it. That’s not their responsibility!

Much of the work PTIS engages in with clients involves addressing ways to bring value to the company through improvements in their business processes. Frequently that involves addressing the manner in which information is managed, like materials specifications. Even though much has changed over the years—new products, markets, equipment, etc.—the business processes being used have remained the same or changed little. How inefficient can that be? That’s like purchasing the most advanced high-speed color laser printer and then trying to feed it with pin-wheel paper (remember that?).

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