THE 5 RULES OF HAPPINESS:
If you like something, enjoy it.
If you don?t like something, avoid it.
If you don?t like something and can?t avoid it, change it.
If you can?t or choose not to avoid or change something you don?t like, then accept it.
You accept something by changing your perception of it.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Beating Holiday Stress
As we prepare for an exciting and opportunity-filled new year, it?s important to leave this one feeling really good. As a result, no Personal Growth path would be complete without having the tools to plan ahead and be proactive in order to beat that holiday stress that can crop up during the holidays.
Here are our Top 5 Ways to Beat Holiday Stress:
1. Take care of yourself first. Especially around the holidays, most of us are inclined to be selfless: buying things for other people, attending their parties, having them over, and generally just spreading ourselves a bit too thin.
Instead, take some time for yourself. If you like to run in the mornings, don?t let that slide. If you need some alone time or meditation time, schedule it in. In short, devote at least some time during the holidays to doing what do you want to do.
Most importantly, buy yourself a gift.
2. Plan ahead. Set a budget. Even if it?s small, it helps to have things laid out on paper in front of you. This should include what will you get and in the case of presents, for whom, and of course a timeline for spending.
3. Follow that plan. The most stress comes from deviation from your plan or budget, or worse, when you don?t have one at all.
Following a plan is the perfect way to set yourself up for a financially secure 2010, too.
4. Have Fun. Do everything you can to prevent stress from taking over. Sit with friends and family over eggnog and cookies. Have a snowball fight. Watch your child?s face light up when he opens a present. Smile, and laugh some more.
5. Give to someone in need. The most powerful possible tool for alleviating holiday stress is to help others. Check out:
http://www.volunteermatch.org
You can enter in your city/town and a keyword(s) having to do with the area in which you?d like to volunteer or give back, and the service will do a search and offer numerous options.
Finally, here?s another good resource with seven unique tips for relieving holiday stress:
http://bit.ly/606Lzl
Here are our Top 5 Ways to Beat Holiday Stress:
1. Take care of yourself first. Especially around the holidays, most of us are inclined to be selfless: buying things for other people, attending their parties, having them over, and generally just spreading ourselves a bit too thin.
Instead, take some time for yourself. If you like to run in the mornings, don?t let that slide. If you need some alone time or meditation time, schedule it in. In short, devote at least some time during the holidays to doing what do you want to do.
Most importantly, buy yourself a gift.
2. Plan ahead. Set a budget. Even if it?s small, it helps to have things laid out on paper in front of you. This should include what will you get and in the case of presents, for whom, and of course a timeline for spending.
3. Follow that plan. The most stress comes from deviation from your plan or budget, or worse, when you don?t have one at all.
Following a plan is the perfect way to set yourself up for a financially secure 2010, too.
4. Have Fun. Do everything you can to prevent stress from taking over. Sit with friends and family over eggnog and cookies. Have a snowball fight. Watch your child?s face light up when he opens a present. Smile, and laugh some more.
5. Give to someone in need. The most powerful possible tool for alleviating holiday stress is to help others. Check out:
http://www.volunteermatch.org
You can enter in your city/town and a keyword(s) having to do with the area in which you?d like to volunteer or give back, and the service will do a search and offer numerous options.
Finally, here?s another good resource with seven unique tips for relieving holiday stress:
http://bit.ly/606Lzl
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Are you using Social Media to improve the effectiveness of your Supply Chain?
The buzz is everywhere, we read about in the newspapers, we hear about it on television, and its part of our everyday life on the Internet. We have to be LinkedIn to our professional network, we have our Facebook page to communicate with our friends and neighbors, and likely we are Twittering while we are out for a casual night on the town. Social networking is everywhere, and although there are new networks being created every day many have yet to fully understand and embrace the potential of this media.
On a personal level, these services can have all sorts of interesting uses and benefits, but what can it mean on a professional level for supply management professionals and their supply chains? Although many new applications will arise in the future there are several ways we can utilize social networking to improve our supply chain communication immediately. The four most common uses are;
1. Advanced Networking
2. Knowledge Sourcing
3. SCM Cloud Automation
4. Communication Repository
Advanced Networking: Many supply-chain experts tell me they feel isolated when working exclusively in their myopic networks. ?We don't really know how other people are dealing with issues similar to our own? said Charles Frederick, who specializes in building and growing family businesses so they can be handed on to the next generation. Charles indicated that often the budgets for educational events and conferences are cut during tough times making it difficult to stay connected with the best new ideas in the industry. Mr. Frederick suggested that social media is a great way to always stay connected with both peers and thought leaders who are relevant to you, your industry or area of specialization right from your deskto. Joining subject specific groups is a great way to stay connected and share the latest thoughts on almost any given subject. Supply-chain groups can be found in Facebook, LinkedIn, Plaxo and other social networks.
Knowledge Sourcing: Is a process associated with finding the appropriate expert in any given subject. Social networking tools can be used to inquire amongst your peers until you find the subject specific experts you have been looking for. This process works extremely effectively in a social networking environment and experts can quickly be evaluated to determine if their particular skills would benefit your specific needs.
SCM Cloud Automation: Cloud computing is the future and like all disruptive technologies there is a healthy tension between the promise of cloud computing and what can be delivered today, particularly when you're an enterprise looking to take advantage of some of the benefits. The promised of low-cost, easy to access, on-demand resources over the Internet can look very attractive to organizations who want to lower their hardware cost and reduce operational expenses. This can be tapped into very effectively through social networks and can even keep the organizations ahead of the curve in terms of utilizing this technology where you have an appropriate role in business. Social networking can be used to qualify the cloud resources in question and ensure that their appropriate for your particular application. Cloud computing will move out of the fear, uncertainty and doubt phase into reality for many customers. Large corporations will begin to move segments of their infrastructure and applications to the cloud and will begin putting pressure on vendors to guarantee predictability and reliability of these information sources. Service management will become main stream and information technology libraries will become standard sources of information that can be easily accessed through social networks.
Knowledge Sourcing: Knowledge sourcing can be greatly enhanced by social networking as more and more information is delivered via the Internet. This information can be qualified and quantified through the process of social networking. There is a consensus of opinion that most knowledge will be disseminated through the Internet, whether it is cloud automation or knowledge sourcing more and more information will be delivered via this media and as it is social networks will play a more important role in both accessing and organizing information for dissemination to its clientele.
Communication Repository: Social networks will play a more important role in disseminating information similar to the Google Wave where information is shared among a group of users or among a social networking utilizing that information. Once such medications are carried out in the social media system they become communication repositories that both new and existing employees can draw upon when dealing with specific supply-chain issues. Implementing a searchable social media driven messaging system for your supply chain can take these islands of information and combined them into valuable assets for understanding, managing and then improving the interactions that take place beyond the direct supply-chain movements and transactions. Social media messaging systems allow all of the message communications within the system whether a closed company system or open system to be stored and then remain a searchable this allows others to view histories of customer interactions, internal employee interactions or situational contextual circumstances of value for future years.
These four methods of utilizing social networks to enhance supply chain information can be implemented today, many more are certain to follow. If you or your organization need help in implementing any of these social networks within your supply chain we would suggest you contact a Supply Chain Expert, their motto is ?you are only as good as your weakest link? and if you are not using social media to enhance your supply-chain information you are missing a golden opportunity to improve your performance and share information across your entire network. The Supply Chain Expert will help you design a program that delivers both immediate and long term benefits to your organization. The program will be designed to shift your organizations thinking, improve innovation, and implement a program that will optimize operational performance and satisfy the requirements of your customers.
Dr. Edward F. Knab
Productivity Constructs, Inc.
800 660 8718 office
949 413 7333 mobile
ed@edwardknab.com
www.productivityconstructs.com
Free Supply Chain Intelligence Reports
Dr. Knab is an academic practitioner and seasoned supply chain expert whose company, Productivity Constructs, Inc., is focused improving global leadership and thereby creating more effective organizations and higher levels of job satisfaction. Dr. Knab can be contacted for speaking engagements, coaching, or consultation at efk@productivityconstructs.com, mailto:ed@ewardknab.com or www.edwardknab.com.
Tags: Chain, EMS, ERP, Software, Supply, efficiency, information, social, network, knowledge, cloud,
Friday, December 18, 2009
Are thre Broken Links in your Supply Chain?
For over 20 years software companies have developed sophisticated technology tools to improve the coordination and control of material moving through the supply chain. Companies have purchased an enormous amount of technology promising end-to-end supply chain visibility; however, there remain a significant number of weak or broken links in the supply chain where shipments simply drop out of sight for considerable amounts of time. Most often organizations either ignore or deny the existence of these information gaps, however, inevitably these weak supply chain links results in excess inventory or poor customer service.
Over the past two decades North American companies have significantly increased their outsourced manufacturing to Chinese vendors. This trend has amplified the number of partners in the supply chain, the interdependencies of subcontractors and raw material suppliers, and the distance that material and information must travel to close this gap.
The information gaps in the form of weak supply chain links are most often found at the outer edges of the supply chain. Any time that raw materials, production parts or finished goods change hands is a potential for communication breakdown which have traditionally been addressed through expense internal enterprise resource planning system (ERP) rather than addressing them through collaboration with their trading partners. Of course, physical goods are not the only thing getting temporarily lost in the supply chain; financial flows and critical supply-chain data also contribute to organizations inability to manage their inventories.
Organizations need an information system that links disparate applications across multiple partners, languages, geographies and cultures. The emergence of the software-as-a-service (SaaS) model in the form of project management and collaboration tools is a positive step in the right direction because it gives everyone in the supply chain and opportunity to identify these weak links and take action to mitigate their impact. However, today there is a plethora should note these tools all with different capabilities and degrees of difficulty in terms of implementation.
If you or your organization would like some help identifying weak links in your supply chain and identifying the appropriate collaboration tools necessary to fill those gaps contact a Supply Chain Expert, their motto is ?you are only as good as your weakest link?. They can help you design a program that delivers both immediate and long term benefits to your organization. The program will be designed to shift your organizations thinking, improve innovation, and implement a program that will optimize operational performance and satisfy the requirements of your customers.
Dr. Edward F. Knab
Productivity Constructs, Inc.
800 660 8718 office
949 413 7333 mobile
ed@edwardknab.com
www.productivityconstructs.com
Free Supply Chain Intelligence Reports
Dr. Knab is an academic practitioner and seasoned supply chain expert whose company, Productivity Constructs, Inc., is focused improving global leadership and thereby creating more effective organizations and higher levels of job satisfaction. Dr. Knab can be contacted for speaking engagements, coaching, or consultation at efk@productivityconstructs.com, mailto:ed@ewardknab.com or www.edwardknab.com.
Tags: Chain, EMS, ERP, SaaS, Software, Supply, efficiency, information
Over the past two decades North American companies have significantly increased their outsourced manufacturing to Chinese vendors. This trend has amplified the number of partners in the supply chain, the interdependencies of subcontractors and raw material suppliers, and the distance that material and information must travel to close this gap.
The information gaps in the form of weak supply chain links are most often found at the outer edges of the supply chain. Any time that raw materials, production parts or finished goods change hands is a potential for communication breakdown which have traditionally been addressed through expense internal enterprise resource planning system (ERP) rather than addressing them through collaboration with their trading partners. Of course, physical goods are not the only thing getting temporarily lost in the supply chain; financial flows and critical supply-chain data also contribute to organizations inability to manage their inventories.
Organizations need an information system that links disparate applications across multiple partners, languages, geographies and cultures. The emergence of the software-as-a-service (SaaS) model in the form of project management and collaboration tools is a positive step in the right direction because it gives everyone in the supply chain and opportunity to identify these weak links and take action to mitigate their impact. However, today there is a plethora should note these tools all with different capabilities and degrees of difficulty in terms of implementation.
If you or your organization would like some help identifying weak links in your supply chain and identifying the appropriate collaboration tools necessary to fill those gaps contact a Supply Chain Expert, their motto is ?you are only as good as your weakest link?. They can help you design a program that delivers both immediate and long term benefits to your organization. The program will be designed to shift your organizations thinking, improve innovation, and implement a program that will optimize operational performance and satisfy the requirements of your customers.
Dr. Edward F. Knab
Productivity Constructs, Inc.
800 660 8718 office
949 413 7333 mobile
ed@edwardknab.com
www.productivityconstructs.com
Free Supply Chain Intelligence Reports
Dr. Knab is an academic practitioner and seasoned supply chain expert whose company, Productivity Constructs, Inc., is focused improving global leadership and thereby creating more effective organizations and higher levels of job satisfaction. Dr. Knab can be contacted for speaking engagements, coaching, or consultation at efk@productivityconstructs.com, mailto:ed@ewardknab.com or www.edwardknab.com.
Tags: Chain, EMS, ERP, SaaS, Software, Supply, efficiency, information
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Leadership Strategies for a Networked World:
Globalization has caused the world to shrink and most of us in one way or another do business with individuals across the globe. Developing a global perspective is an important aspect of building a global network which can be extremely helpful to your personal and career goals.
Recognize that building a global network requires commitment, you must keep the network active by initiating an ongoing dialogue regarding common interest. This dialogue should include people outside your immediate team that can keep you informed, help you develop a global perspective, assist in making decisions and work with you to accomplish goals. Base your network on relationships, and don't become too company centric, add people from other organizations, disciplines and perspectives and don't let your company politics become a topic of discussion. The relationships you build should be career based and extend beyond the focus of your current employer, be recognized for your loyalty and commitment.
When building a global team it's critically important to provide others with your local perspective. Provide information about what's happening in the company as a whole, discuss changes in policy and the impact on the company's performance. Don't be afraid to talk about your organizations business drivers and how your team contributes to the overall success of the company. Ensure that everyone is clear about your team's goals and objectives and how they contribute to the overall success of the organization.
Invest your energy in understanding, it is easy for misunderstandings to occur in a global environment where there is a great deal of cultural diversity. Take accurate notes at meetings and publish meeting minutes that give credit to other team members for their valuable contributions. Get clear about your goals and objectives and publish them in order that everyone both understands and shares these common goals. Take additional time to ensure everyone on the team has a clear understanding of what needs to be accomplished at each meeting.
Use technology effectively, whether it's virtual meetings or recorded conference calls. Provide ample opportunity for all participants to make significant contributions and document the process in a manner that will encourage additional input even after the meeting is over. Ensure that you are accessible based and attempt to schedule meetings at times that are convenient for all the participants.
Building a global team can be extremely rewarding as well as providing valuable perspective to your normal way of thinking. There is great value in listening and understanding different perspectives. What works in your home market may not work in another culture or geography.
If you are interested in developing an effective global network we would recommend reading; Emerging Market Success Factors which will provide you with valuable insight and perspective. If you would like some help implementing global network strategies that can help your company reduce the costs associated with your supply chain environment, contact a Supply Chain Expert. They will help your team streamline operations while building networks that reduce your supply chain risks. The program will be designed to shift your organizations thinking, improve innovation, and implement strategies that will optimize operational performance and satisfy the requirements of your customers.
Dr. Edward F. Knab
Productivity Constructs, Inc
800 660 8718 office
949 413 7333 mobile
ed@edwardknab.com
www.productivityconstructs.com
More Supply Chain Experts Blogs
Dr. Knab is an academic practitioner and seasoned supply chain expert whose company, Productivity Constructs, Inc., is focused improving global leadership and thereby creating more effective organizations and higher levels of job satisfaction. Dr. Knab can be contacted for speaking engagements, coaching, or consultation at efk@productivityconstructs.com, ed@ewardknab.com or www.edwardknab.com.
Recognize that building a global network requires commitment, you must keep the network active by initiating an ongoing dialogue regarding common interest. This dialogue should include people outside your immediate team that can keep you informed, help you develop a global perspective, assist in making decisions and work with you to accomplish goals. Base your network on relationships, and don't become too company centric, add people from other organizations, disciplines and perspectives and don't let your company politics become a topic of discussion. The relationships you build should be career based and extend beyond the focus of your current employer, be recognized for your loyalty and commitment.
When building a global team it's critically important to provide others with your local perspective. Provide information about what's happening in the company as a whole, discuss changes in policy and the impact on the company's performance. Don't be afraid to talk about your organizations business drivers and how your team contributes to the overall success of the company. Ensure that everyone is clear about your team's goals and objectives and how they contribute to the overall success of the organization.
Invest your energy in understanding, it is easy for misunderstandings to occur in a global environment where there is a great deal of cultural diversity. Take accurate notes at meetings and publish meeting minutes that give credit to other team members for their valuable contributions. Get clear about your goals and objectives and publish them in order that everyone both understands and shares these common goals. Take additional time to ensure everyone on the team has a clear understanding of what needs to be accomplished at each meeting.
Use technology effectively, whether it's virtual meetings or recorded conference calls. Provide ample opportunity for all participants to make significant contributions and document the process in a manner that will encourage additional input even after the meeting is over. Ensure that you are accessible based and attempt to schedule meetings at times that are convenient for all the participants.
Building a global team can be extremely rewarding as well as providing valuable perspective to your normal way of thinking. There is great value in listening and understanding different perspectives. What works in your home market may not work in another culture or geography.
If you are interested in developing an effective global network we would recommend reading; Emerging Market Success Factors which will provide you with valuable insight and perspective. If you would like some help implementing global network strategies that can help your company reduce the costs associated with your supply chain environment, contact a Supply Chain Expert. They will help your team streamline operations while building networks that reduce your supply chain risks. The program will be designed to shift your organizations thinking, improve innovation, and implement strategies that will optimize operational performance and satisfy the requirements of your customers.
Dr. Edward F. Knab
Productivity Constructs, Inc
800 660 8718 office
949 413 7333 mobile
ed@edwardknab.com
www.productivityconstructs.com
More Supply Chain Experts Blogs
Dr. Knab is an academic practitioner and seasoned supply chain expert whose company, Productivity Constructs, Inc., is focused improving global leadership and thereby creating more effective organizations and higher levels of job satisfaction. Dr. Knab can be contacted for speaking engagements, coaching, or consultation at efk@productivityconstructs.com, ed@ewardknab.com or www.edwardknab.com.
Monday, December 14, 2009
From My Friend Jon Gordon
0 Thoughts about Leadership
At a time when the world is thinking a lot about leadership I believe it's a great opportunity for each one of us to think about what leadership means to us. Below I?ve shared some of my thoughts on leadership and whether you are a leader of a business, team, hospital, classroom, church or home, I hope you'll think about what principles and ideas guide you as a leader and feel free to share them on our blog.
1. People follow the leader first and the leader's vision second - It doesn't matter if the leader shares a powerful vision, if the leader is not someone who people will follow the vision will never be realized. As a leader, who you are makes a difference. The most important message you can share is yourself.
2. Trust is the force that connects people to the leader and his/her vision - Without trust there is a huge gap between the leader and the vision. Without trust people will stay off the bus. However if people trust the leader they will hop on the bus with the leader and help move the bus forward towards the vision.
3. Leadership is not just about what you do but what you can inspire, encourage and empower others to do.
4. A leader brings out the best within others by sharing the best within themselves.
5. Just because you're driving the bus doesn't mean you have the right to run people over - Abraham Lincoln said "Most anyone can stand adversity, but to test a man's character give him power." The more power you are granted the more it is your responsibility to serve, develop and empower others. When you help them grow they'll help you grow.
6. ?Rules without Relationship Leads to Rebellion? - Andy Stanley said this and it's one of my favorite quotes. As a leader you can have all the rules you want but if you don?t invest in your people and develop a relationship with them they will rebel. This applies amazingly to children as well. It's all about relationships.
7. Lead with optimism, enthusiasm and positive energy, guard against pessimism and weed out negativity.
8. Great Leaders know they don't have all the answers - Rather they build a team of people who either know the answers or will find them.
9. Leaders inspire and teach their people to focus on solutions, not complaints. (The No Complaining Rule)
10. Great leaders know that success is a process not a destination - One of my heroes John Wooden, the legendary UCLA basketball coach, never focused on winning. He knew that winning was the by product of great leadership, teamwork, focus, commitment and execution of the fundamentals. As a leader focus on your people and process, not the outcome.
Download, print and share these 10 Thoughts about Leadership as a PDF poster, click here.
Stay Positive,
- Jon
At a time when the world is thinking a lot about leadership I believe it's a great opportunity for each one of us to think about what leadership means to us. Below I?ve shared some of my thoughts on leadership and whether you are a leader of a business, team, hospital, classroom, church or home, I hope you'll think about what principles and ideas guide you as a leader and feel free to share them on our blog.
1. People follow the leader first and the leader's vision second - It doesn't matter if the leader shares a powerful vision, if the leader is not someone who people will follow the vision will never be realized. As a leader, who you are makes a difference. The most important message you can share is yourself.
2. Trust is the force that connects people to the leader and his/her vision - Without trust there is a huge gap between the leader and the vision. Without trust people will stay off the bus. However if people trust the leader they will hop on the bus with the leader and help move the bus forward towards the vision.
3. Leadership is not just about what you do but what you can inspire, encourage and empower others to do.
4. A leader brings out the best within others by sharing the best within themselves.
5. Just because you're driving the bus doesn't mean you have the right to run people over - Abraham Lincoln said "Most anyone can stand adversity, but to test a man's character give him power." The more power you are granted the more it is your responsibility to serve, develop and empower others. When you help them grow they'll help you grow.
6. ?Rules without Relationship Leads to Rebellion? - Andy Stanley said this and it's one of my favorite quotes. As a leader you can have all the rules you want but if you don?t invest in your people and develop a relationship with them they will rebel. This applies amazingly to children as well. It's all about relationships.
7. Lead with optimism, enthusiasm and positive energy, guard against pessimism and weed out negativity.
8. Great Leaders know they don't have all the answers - Rather they build a team of people who either know the answers or will find them.
9. Leaders inspire and teach their people to focus on solutions, not complaints. (The No Complaining Rule)
10. Great leaders know that success is a process not a destination - One of my heroes John Wooden, the legendary UCLA basketball coach, never focused on winning. He knew that winning was the by product of great leadership, teamwork, focus, commitment and execution of the fundamentals. As a leader focus on your people and process, not the outcome.
Download, print and share these 10 Thoughts about Leadership as a PDF poster, click here.
Stay Positive,
- Jon
Sunday, December 13, 2009
How to live a happy Life?
How to live a happy and rewarding life:
Take time to smell the roses.
Take a nap on Sunday afternoon.
Drink 8 glasses of water a day.
Never deprive someone of hope? it might be all they have.
Be thankful for every meal.
Don't be afraid to say I'm sorry.
Don't take your health for granted.
Improve your performance by improving your attitude.
Listen to your children.
Leave everything a little better than you found it.
Keep it simple.
Keep good company.
Keep your promise.
Be kinder than necessary.
Take good care of those you love.
Make it a habit to do nice things.
Make it a habit to do nice things for people who will never find out.
Wear outrageous underwear.
Vote.
Judge your success by the degree that you're enjoying peace, health and love.
Be a gracious loser.
Be a gracious winner.
Be romantic.
Live so that when you your children think of fairness, caring and integrity, they think of you.
Enjoy real maple syrup.
Never refuse homemade brownies.
Never give anyone a fruitcake.
Remember other people's birthdays.
Sing in the shower.
Don't nag.
Don't gossip.
Don't tailgate.
Don't expect money to bring you happiness.
Be forgiving of yourself and others.
Never give up on anyone. Miracles happen every day.
Say thank you a lot.
Say please a lot.
Take your dog to obedience school. You'll both learn a lot.
Slow dance.
Don't rain on other people's parades.
Don't postpone joy.
Don?t blame others. Take responsibility for every area of your life.
Take care of your reputation. It's your most valuable asset.
Count your blessings.
Whistle.
Marry only for love.
Do more than is expected.
Be there when others need you.
Never sell yourself short.
Never be ashamed of your patriotism.
Never be ashamed of honest tears.
Give thanks for our military men and women and their families
Take time to smell the roses.
Take a nap on Sunday afternoon.
Drink 8 glasses of water a day.
Never deprive someone of hope? it might be all they have.
Be thankful for every meal.
Don't be afraid to say I'm sorry.
Don't take your health for granted.
Improve your performance by improving your attitude.
Listen to your children.
Leave everything a little better than you found it.
Keep it simple.
Keep good company.
Keep your promise.
Be kinder than necessary.
Take good care of those you love.
Make it a habit to do nice things.
Make it a habit to do nice things for people who will never find out.
Wear outrageous underwear.
Vote.
Judge your success by the degree that you're enjoying peace, health and love.
Be a gracious loser.
Be a gracious winner.
Be romantic.
Live so that when you your children think of fairness, caring and integrity, they think of you.
Enjoy real maple syrup.
Never refuse homemade brownies.
Never give anyone a fruitcake.
Remember other people's birthdays.
Sing in the shower.
Don't nag.
Don't gossip.
Don't tailgate.
Don't expect money to bring you happiness.
Be forgiving of yourself and others.
Never give up on anyone. Miracles happen every day.
Say thank you a lot.
Say please a lot.
Take your dog to obedience school. You'll both learn a lot.
Slow dance.
Don't rain on other people's parades.
Don't postpone joy.
Don?t blame others. Take responsibility for every area of your life.
Take care of your reputation. It's your most valuable asset.
Count your blessings.
Whistle.
Marry only for love.
Do more than is expected.
Be there when others need you.
Never sell yourself short.
Never be ashamed of your patriotism.
Never be ashamed of honest tears.
Give thanks for our military men and women and their families
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Goals
Goal Setting for Success: 5 Tips to Map Out Crystal Clear Goals
Dr. Edward Knab
It doesn?t matter whether you are setting goals for your personal life, for your business, your health or even your spirituality ? mapping out clear, concise goals is the first key to successfully achieving them. Without clear goals you quite probably will end up misdirected on what is that you want to achieve. This misdirection could easily lead you down the path of stagnation.
Crystal Clear goals will give you significant motivation, increased momentum and intensify purpose in your life.
Here are five major tips to help you define those crystal clear goals for your life or business:
Be aware of what you want to achieve. First and foremost, if you want to define crystal clear goals, you need to know exactly what you want to achieve ? where you want to be, what you want to have and what you want to do. You will never figure out to get there ? if you do not know where THERE is.
Once you know where you want to be and what you want to achieve, you?ll be able to come up with the goals that will help you get there.
? Where what to be in 1, 3, 5 and 10 years from now?
? What kind of work do you want to be doing?
? What kind of relationship do you want to be in?
? Where do you want to live?
These are just a few idea starters for you?.
1.) Take the time to sit down and brainstorm your long-term dreams and desires.
2.) Set the Clock. A goal without a deadline is a wish or a dream that will easily evaporate like the morning dew when the light of day sets across it. Setting deadlines will thwart procrastination and urge you into action to meet your goals. Having a timeline for your goals also helps to clarify them because now not only do you know what you want but you also know when you want it by!
a.) Come up with goals that you want to meet in a month, year, and even five or ten years from now.
b.) Nest some small goals together chronologically to form a the achievement of a larger goal: Example: I will walk 3x a week starting this week, I jog 1 mile a week by x/x/2009, I run 5 miles a week by x/x/2009, I do 3 hrs of cardio a week by x/x/2009, I run 5 miles a day by x/x/2009. All of these could be leading up to a larger goal of ?I will run my first marathon by x/x/2010.? ? you get the picture.
Create a MAP (Massive Action Plan) to keep you on track, BUT, don?t etch your map in stone! Allow for modifications along the way, but always keep your eye ever focused on the primary goal.
2.) Keep it real. With realistic goals, you can all but guarantee that you will be able to achieve all that you desire. Set yourself a goal that is just a little bit outside of your reach? then when you reach it you will be able to reach out farther for the next one. This way you won?t stress yourself out trying to accomplish something that?s out of reach. A clear goal is a realistic one, make it a stretch goal (do not be too easy on yourself) but certainly make it attainable.
? Like I noted above you will want to break down long-term goals into smaller goals and smaller goal into bite sized, achievable action steps. Completing action steps and tasks towards your goals will give you a feeling of accomplishment and motivate you to continue your journey towards your major goal.
? Be Crystal Clear. Specify your goals with the details of exactly what you want. Avoid vague generalities. Make it so that you handed a stranger a piece of paper that hand your one sentence goal written on it, they would know exactly what you were trying to achieve. Also, they would be able to tell if you have achieved it already or now. When you make a specific goal, you?ll be better able to accomplish it ? not to mention you will know WHEN you have accomplished it.
? Specific goals allow you to form your timeline and define your action steps. There?s no guesswork involved when dealing with specifics.
? Example, ?make money online? is way too vague a goal. You would need to come up with a specific goal, such as, ?I make $1,000 more per month, by x/x/2009.? This goal is specific, measurable, and realistic. Also, please note the tense of the goal. It is written in the positive present tense.
Review and Refine your goals. Your life will go through change, so would should your goals remain constant. If you think about it, when you were younger you thought and believed things that today you may not. You have changed as a result of inputs, actions and activities that have gone on in your life. So too may your goals change as your life changes. During this review and refining process, discard goals you no longer long for, and reprioritize those you do. Again, make them more specific, realistic, and achievable.
? It?s okay to refine your goals several times in your life! What?s important this very minute, might not be as important to you nine months or nine years from this very minute. Accept change, heck, even embrace it. Revisit your goals from at minimum once a year and make new plans if necessary.
Many flounder through life, unsure of what they want to achieve or what their purpose is. That will not be you! Give your life crystal clear meaning by putting some thought into what is important to you. What goals do you want to achieve? What actions are you going to take to make your dreams of today your reality tomorrow?
Well what are you waiting for? Go?..
Think Successfully & Take Action!
--
Dr. Edward F. Knab
Productivity Constructs, Inc.
"Helping companies optimize people, processes and performance to achieve their full potential."
www.edwardknab.com
Office: +1 800 660 8718
Mobile: +1 949 413 7333
www.supplychainexperts.ning.com
Dr. Edward Knab
It doesn?t matter whether you are setting goals for your personal life, for your business, your health or even your spirituality ? mapping out clear, concise goals is the first key to successfully achieving them. Without clear goals you quite probably will end up misdirected on what is that you want to achieve. This misdirection could easily lead you down the path of stagnation.
Crystal Clear goals will give you significant motivation, increased momentum and intensify purpose in your life.
Here are five major tips to help you define those crystal clear goals for your life or business:
Be aware of what you want to achieve. First and foremost, if you want to define crystal clear goals, you need to know exactly what you want to achieve ? where you want to be, what you want to have and what you want to do. You will never figure out to get there ? if you do not know where THERE is.
Once you know where you want to be and what you want to achieve, you?ll be able to come up with the goals that will help you get there.
? Where what to be in 1, 3, 5 and 10 years from now?
? What kind of work do you want to be doing?
? What kind of relationship do you want to be in?
? Where do you want to live?
These are just a few idea starters for you?.
1.) Take the time to sit down and brainstorm your long-term dreams and desires.
2.) Set the Clock. A goal without a deadline is a wish or a dream that will easily evaporate like the morning dew when the light of day sets across it. Setting deadlines will thwart procrastination and urge you into action to meet your goals. Having a timeline for your goals also helps to clarify them because now not only do you know what you want but you also know when you want it by!
a.) Come up with goals that you want to meet in a month, year, and even five or ten years from now.
b.) Nest some small goals together chronologically to form a the achievement of a larger goal: Example: I will walk 3x a week starting this week, I jog 1 mile a week by x/x/2009, I run 5 miles a week by x/x/2009, I do 3 hrs of cardio a week by x/x/2009, I run 5 miles a day by x/x/2009. All of these could be leading up to a larger goal of ?I will run my first marathon by x/x/2010.? ? you get the picture.
Create a MAP (Massive Action Plan) to keep you on track, BUT, don?t etch your map in stone! Allow for modifications along the way, but always keep your eye ever focused on the primary goal.
2.) Keep it real. With realistic goals, you can all but guarantee that you will be able to achieve all that you desire. Set yourself a goal that is just a little bit outside of your reach? then when you reach it you will be able to reach out farther for the next one. This way you won?t stress yourself out trying to accomplish something that?s out of reach. A clear goal is a realistic one, make it a stretch goal (do not be too easy on yourself) but certainly make it attainable.
? Like I noted above you will want to break down long-term goals into smaller goals and smaller goal into bite sized, achievable action steps. Completing action steps and tasks towards your goals will give you a feeling of accomplishment and motivate you to continue your journey towards your major goal.
? Be Crystal Clear. Specify your goals with the details of exactly what you want. Avoid vague generalities. Make it so that you handed a stranger a piece of paper that hand your one sentence goal written on it, they would know exactly what you were trying to achieve. Also, they would be able to tell if you have achieved it already or now. When you make a specific goal, you?ll be better able to accomplish it ? not to mention you will know WHEN you have accomplished it.
? Specific goals allow you to form your timeline and define your action steps. There?s no guesswork involved when dealing with specifics.
? Example, ?make money online? is way too vague a goal. You would need to come up with a specific goal, such as, ?I make $1,000 more per month, by x/x/2009.? This goal is specific, measurable, and realistic. Also, please note the tense of the goal. It is written in the positive present tense.
Review and Refine your goals. Your life will go through change, so would should your goals remain constant. If you think about it, when you were younger you thought and believed things that today you may not. You have changed as a result of inputs, actions and activities that have gone on in your life. So too may your goals change as your life changes. During this review and refining process, discard goals you no longer long for, and reprioritize those you do. Again, make them more specific, realistic, and achievable.
? It?s okay to refine your goals several times in your life! What?s important this very minute, might not be as important to you nine months or nine years from this very minute. Accept change, heck, even embrace it. Revisit your goals from at minimum once a year and make new plans if necessary.
Many flounder through life, unsure of what they want to achieve or what their purpose is. That will not be you! Give your life crystal clear meaning by putting some thought into what is important to you. What goals do you want to achieve? What actions are you going to take to make your dreams of today your reality tomorrow?
Well what are you waiting for? Go?..
Think Successfully & Take Action!
--
Dr. Edward F. Knab
Productivity Constructs, Inc.
"Helping companies optimize people, processes and performance to achieve their full potential."
www.edwardknab.com
Office: +1 800 660 8718
Mobile: +1 949 413 7333
www.supplychainexperts.ning.com
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Accomplish more by doing less
Accomplishing More By Doing Less
By Marc Lesser from the Huffington Post
I would propose that we always accomplish more when we approach each moment and task in an open, relaxed, and fully engaged manner -- whether leading a meeting, answering emails, or taking our children to school. In this way, our sense of accomplishment depends more on the way we act (which we can control) than on the results (which may be out of our control). No matter the chaos of any particular day, this can become one of our most important and useful aspirations and measures of success. Sometimes the greatest accomplishment is having the courage and skill to make intelligent midcourse corrections. At other times, the greatest accomplishment is having the courage to do less.
To accomplish more by doing less involves a simple yet profound transformation: it's a different way of being in the world. You may, in fact, be no less busy, but you will be less scattered and distracted, and you will accomplish more of what matters to you: more of what aligns with your deepest purpose and intention; more of what brings you satisfaction and connection with others; more of what you believe really needs to get done. Doing less and accomplishing more is about aligning your actions with your values and your particular passions. And finally, by becoming more peaceful and at peace with yourself, you will spread that into the world, which will become that much more peaceful and sane as a result.
Here are five practices, five ways to do less, that may result in more accomplishment:
1) Take time to step out of regular activity - Do less by taking the time to rest mentally and physically in between or outside of your usual activities, perhaps instituting a regular practice of meditation, retreats, breaks, and reflection.
2) Pause in the midst of activity - Do less by pausing in the midst of activities: mindfulness practice (such as coming in touch with our breath in between reading or sending emails) and walking meditation are two examples. Try reading a poem during your lunch break, or just going for a leisurely stroll, right in the midst of your busy day.
3) Do less of what is extra - Do less by identifying and reducing unnecessary activities. In this case, "unnecessary" means those things that
4) Less striving; more presence - Do less by the very quality of your being. We must be completely present for what we are doing, without sacrificing or rushing what's in front of us in order to get to "more important" stuff later. No matter how mundane the activity, treat everything as important and take pleasure in it. At bottom, whatever we are doing right now is what we are engaged in and it deserves our full attention and appreciation.
5) Integrate effort and effortlessness - Do less by integrating effort with a feeling of effortlessness. This sounds like a contradiction but it isn't. With practice, we all can find that sweet spot that combines engagement, creativity, and composure.
Ultimately, "success" in our work world and in our life does not rest with external rewards or achievements. What matters most is how much love and goodness our existence has added to the planet, how effectively we have engaged with the people we cherish most, and how much we have been able to locate our own sense of deep composure right in the midst of the messiness of life.
By Marc Lesser from the Huffington Post
I would propose that we always accomplish more when we approach each moment and task in an open, relaxed, and fully engaged manner -- whether leading a meeting, answering emails, or taking our children to school. In this way, our sense of accomplishment depends more on the way we act (which we can control) than on the results (which may be out of our control). No matter the chaos of any particular day, this can become one of our most important and useful aspirations and measures of success. Sometimes the greatest accomplishment is having the courage and skill to make intelligent midcourse corrections. At other times, the greatest accomplishment is having the courage to do less.
To accomplish more by doing less involves a simple yet profound transformation: it's a different way of being in the world. You may, in fact, be no less busy, but you will be less scattered and distracted, and you will accomplish more of what matters to you: more of what aligns with your deepest purpose and intention; more of what brings you satisfaction and connection with others; more of what you believe really needs to get done. Doing less and accomplishing more is about aligning your actions with your values and your particular passions. And finally, by becoming more peaceful and at peace with yourself, you will spread that into the world, which will become that much more peaceful and sane as a result.
Here are five practices, five ways to do less, that may result in more accomplishment:
1) Take time to step out of regular activity - Do less by taking the time to rest mentally and physically in between or outside of your usual activities, perhaps instituting a regular practice of meditation, retreats, breaks, and reflection.
2) Pause in the midst of activity - Do less by pausing in the midst of activities: mindfulness practice (such as coming in touch with our breath in between reading or sending emails) and walking meditation are two examples. Try reading a poem during your lunch break, or just going for a leisurely stroll, right in the midst of your busy day.
3) Do less of what is extra - Do less by identifying and reducing unnecessary activities. In this case, "unnecessary" means those things that
4) Less striving; more presence - Do less by the very quality of your being. We must be completely present for what we are doing, without sacrificing or rushing what's in front of us in order to get to "more important" stuff later. No matter how mundane the activity, treat everything as important and take pleasure in it. At bottom, whatever we are doing right now is what we are engaged in and it deserves our full attention and appreciation.
5) Integrate effort and effortlessness - Do less by integrating effort with a feeling of effortlessness. This sounds like a contradiction but it isn't. With practice, we all can find that sweet spot that combines engagement, creativity, and composure.
Ultimately, "success" in our work world and in our life does not rest with external rewards or achievements. What matters most is how much love and goodness our existence has added to the planet, how effectively we have engaged with the people we cherish most, and how much we have been able to locate our own sense of deep composure right in the midst of the messiness of life.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
White Papers
Are 4-Page White Papers Really White Papers?
By Jonathan Kantor
In addition to a higher unemployment rate, another by-product of the recession has been its impact on the size of the commercial white paper.
As companies scale back their marketing budgets during recessionary periods, marketing expenditures are being carefully scrutinized, renegotiated and reduced if possible. The result of these cost-containment initiatives has been an explosion in shorter, less expensive white papers, typically between two and four pages in length.
While these short white papers may include the label "white paper" on their cover, and may provide an organization with bragging rights to claim that they have a white paper on their website, these short documents do littleto satisfy the expectations that business readers have of the medium. On the contrary, the monetary savings gained by employing such a strategy typically do not offset the diminished perceptions of the featured solution, company and/orbrand sponsoring the white paper.
Why?
The limited amount of space available in a short white paper (two to four pages) is typically used for a solution description and its various beneficial attributes. Because marketers want to "cut to the chase" and quickly describe their solution rather than wasting space educating the reader with background information, these short white papers are often perceived as glorified sales brochures. This "short length" strategy is one of the leadingcomplaints of business executives when pollsters asked their opinion of the white paper medium.
As evidence of this position, a February 2009 study conducted by InformationWeek.com titled, "White Papers: How to Maximize the Use of White Papers in Your B2B Marketing and Sales Process," concluded that over 78%of the executive respondents indicated that having "Minimal Marketing" is either extremely important or somewhat important in a white paper. This means less selling and more educating are preferred.
The label "white paper" means something very specific to this business audience. Not only does it imply that the document will provide high-quality information on the designated topic, but also that there needs to besufficient length to thoroughly educate the reader on that topic. In my opinion, an ideal six- to eight-page white paper would include the following attributes:
* Executive summary (one page)
* Introduction (one page)
* Assessment of existing challenges (one to two pages)
* Presentation of the solution and benefits (one to two pages)
* Optional case study (one page)
* Conclusion (one page)
If you do not have an adequate amount of information to fill six to eight pages, then don't call your document a white paper. Call it a solution guide, a product reference sheet, a technical primer or a vision statement, but not awhite paper. Creating a short two- to four-page white paper that doesn't meet readers' expectations will not only waste your limited budget, it will frustrate your target business audience as well.
About the Author: Jonathan Kantor has been writing white papers for 11 years as principal of The Appum Group, "The White Paper Company," and is author of the blog WhitePaperPundit.com . His new book Crafting White Paper 2.0 was just released.
LINKS: Click here for discussion OR to link to this article.
By Jonathan Kantor
In addition to a higher unemployment rate, another by-product of the recession has been its impact on the size of the commercial white paper.
As companies scale back their marketing budgets during recessionary periods, marketing expenditures are being carefully scrutinized, renegotiated and reduced if possible. The result of these cost-containment initiatives has been an explosion in shorter, less expensive white papers, typically between two and four pages in length.
While these short white papers may include the label "white paper" on their cover, and may provide an organization with bragging rights to claim that they have a white paper on their website, these short documents do littleto satisfy the expectations that business readers have of the medium. On the contrary, the monetary savings gained by employing such a strategy typically do not offset the diminished perceptions of the featured solution, company and/orbrand sponsoring the white paper.
Why?
The limited amount of space available in a short white paper (two to four pages) is typically used for a solution description and its various beneficial attributes. Because marketers want to "cut to the chase" and quickly describe their solution rather than wasting space educating the reader with background information, these short white papers are often perceived as glorified sales brochures. This "short length" strategy is one of the leadingcomplaints of business executives when pollsters asked their opinion of the white paper medium.
As evidence of this position, a February 2009 study conducted by InformationWeek.com titled, "White Papers: How to Maximize the Use of White Papers in Your B2B Marketing and Sales Process," concluded that over 78%of the executive respondents indicated that having "Minimal Marketing" is either extremely important or somewhat important in a white paper. This means less selling and more educating are preferred.
The label "white paper" means something very specific to this business audience. Not only does it imply that the document will provide high-quality information on the designated topic, but also that there needs to besufficient length to thoroughly educate the reader on that topic. In my opinion, an ideal six- to eight-page white paper would include the following attributes:
* Executive summary (one page)
* Introduction (one page)
* Assessment of existing challenges (one to two pages)
* Presentation of the solution and benefits (one to two pages)
* Optional case study (one page)
* Conclusion (one page)
If you do not have an adequate amount of information to fill six to eight pages, then don't call your document a white paper. Call it a solution guide, a product reference sheet, a technical primer or a vision statement, but not awhite paper. Creating a short two- to four-page white paper that doesn't meet readers' expectations will not only waste your limited budget, it will frustrate your target business audience as well.
About the Author: Jonathan Kantor has been writing white papers for 11 years as principal of The Appum Group, "The White Paper Company," and is author of the blog WhitePaperPundit.com . His new book Crafting White Paper 2.0 was just released.
LINKS: Click here for discussion OR to link to this article.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Journaling - Jim Rohn style
Here is a specific way to apply journaling to help you.
Anytime you attend a seminar, training, conference call, or team meeting have a hardbound or leather bound journal with you. By making this a habit you will permanently capture all the great ideas that you learn. After attending a 1 or 2 day seminar review your notes in your journal for 15 minutes per night for the next two weeks.
Here is another great Jim Rohn quote.
?Your goal is to share these ideas with others.?
Jim also had a big impact on my life through Tony Robbins. Tony worked for Jim. That is how Tony Robbins broke into the training industry.
Jim will live on through the people like me he has impacted that will continue to share with others what he has shared with us.
Anytime you attend a seminar, training, conference call, or team meeting have a hardbound or leather bound journal with you. By making this a habit you will permanently capture all the great ideas that you learn. After attending a 1 or 2 day seminar review your notes in your journal for 15 minutes per night for the next two weeks.
Here is another great Jim Rohn quote.
?Your goal is to share these ideas with others.?
Jim also had a big impact on my life through Tony Robbins. Tony worked for Jim. That is how Tony Robbins broke into the training industry.
Jim will live on through the people like me he has impacted that will continue to share with others what he has shared with us.
Jim Rohn
Jim Rohn will be missed, his wit and personal development insight helped millions. I had the opportunity to see and speak with him in 1994. He showed me the importance of journaling, over the years this has migrated to blogging, but still maintains an accurate record of my thoughts and aspirations. I will dedicate this blog to Jim Rhone for 2010. Jim. thank you!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
10 Considerations When Selecting the ?Right? System Integrator for Your Implementation
10 Considerations When Selecting the ?Right? System Integrator for Your Implementation
We used to think that evaluating and selecting the ?right? enterprise system was the key to success. Well think again! After much industry consolidation, today?s options are dominated by Epicor, Infor, Lawson, Oracle, SAP, Sage, and Microsoft Dynamics solutions with a good number of Best of Breed industry-specific choices sprinkled in for consideration. The good news is that although fewer choices remain, the software products themselves offer a robust features and functions often packaged as a suite.
A Key Question - So if there are fewer alternative choices and you do a good job of matching your key requirements to the features and functions offered by the available software solutions, don?t you have a high probability of a successful implementation?
The logical response is ?yes,? but experience says otherwise. In today?s market, selecting the ?right? software does not guarantee a successful implementation. Why? Because with the level of sophistication of all these products, whether they be a Tier 1 or Tier 2 solution, there is a significant level of complexity to properly configure and test the solution before going live ? not to mention the challenge of training existing user in the proper use of the new system. In addition, in almost all cases, putting in a new system today requires rethinking your existing business processes.
So where do you go for that guarantee, that warm and fuzzy feeling that your implementation will be successful and finish close to your budget? Much of the answer rests within the composition of your internal project team. Another key success factor is the competencies of the System Integrator that you engage to train your team and design, configure, and test the system.
How Do You Select the Right System Integrator?
Many years of experience in working with a broad scope of System Integrators has lead to the conclusion that some Integrators are better than others. This is probably not a surprise.
While none of the tips below are infallible, there are ways to lessen your chances of choosing a poor partner for implementation.
Here are 10 simple and effective guidelines to assist in selecting the ?right? System Integrator for your project:
TIP #1: Select an Experienced Implementation Team
Regardless of the name of the firm on the business card, the bottom-line is to assess the experience and skills of the specific individuals that comprise the proposed Project Team and make sure that each of the functional areas to be addressed has a functional expert assigned to the Team. The more important a functional area is to your business, the more important it is that you trust the team member responsible for this area.
It is also important to know that some of the key individual members of the System Integrators team have worked together in the past. Effective communication is a key to success and sometimes the functional consultants are recruited just for your project and may be meeting their team mates for the first time. This can be a warning of problems ahead.
Incorporate added protection by negotiating the option to change team players if one or more is jeopardizing the success of your implementation.
TIP #2: Validate the Project Scope and Approach before Project Kick-Off
Make sure that the selected System Integrator has provided you with a detailed Statement of Work document that clearly describes the scope of work to be performed, identifies all assumptions or exclusions, delineates responsibilities, and clearly explains proposed fees.
A System Integrator that chooses to be vague is taking that approach for its own benefit, not yours. If the system integration firm refuses to provide an adequate level of detail to support the planned implementation activities, look elsewhere. This is not the time to simply trust a vendor.
TIP #3: Look for Relevant Industry Expertise
You looked for a system that can address the unique features and functions for your industry. Make sure that the selected System Integrator brings a similar familiarity and relevant references to the project. You don?t want to encounter a situation where the assigned functional consultants do not understand the unique requirements that are mandated within your industry. The design and configuration stage of the implementation is not the time for the external implementation team to learn all the nuances of your industry.
TIP #4: Can They Actually Do System Integration?
More often than not, you are implementing a new enterprise solution that will require integration to other in-house developed or third-party solutions. Does your System Integrator bring with it the technical resources to accomplish the required level of integration?
When a System Integrator looks to your internal team to develop the required interfaces into the new system it may be a signal to consider other options. You may be asked to participate in the integration process, but a good implementation partner will have the necessary technical resources to accomplish the required integration. They may even offer the use of less costly off-shore resources to effectively manage integration costs.
TIP #5: Is Data Conversion Too Much to Ask?
No implementation can progress successfully without converting existing data into the new system. Both static and dynamic files require planning and mapping from legacy systems to the new database. The selected System Integrator must bring the tools and expertise to successfully convert required data files.
It is difficult to convert historical transactional data, but when it comes to routine master file data, your partner should provide you with a process to efficiently map the old formats to the new. One of the primary causes of implementation project delays and budget overruns is the inability to convert and validate data. Pick a System Integrator that can work with you to make data conversion as easy as possible.
TIP #6: Can the System Integrator Introduce Business Process Improvements?
Remember that you are implementing a new system. Don?t settle for a System Integrator that supports the status quo. A system is not just the hardware and software but also encompasses your defined organizational responsibilities and supporting business processes. A good System Integrator will understand the best practices built into the software and possess the depth of experience to introduce alternative work flow or business process methodologies within the scope of the work being performed.
TIP #7: Does your System Integrator Choose to Plan or Plan to React?
Look for a System Integrator that promotes a methodology that will provide a reasonable level of comfort that the project will be performed on-time and within budget. You wouldn?t hire an a firm to build a house without blueprints, right? Don?t hire a System Integrator that can?t describe the methodology that they will be using to build your system and bring you and your staff to a successful ?Go-Live? status.
TIP #8: Not All System Integrators are Equal, Look for Value-Add
With experience, you get System Integrators that can provide libraries of tools (programmed routines, utilities, reports, etc.) that they can utilize to simplify and streamline the implementation process. These are Value-Add features that should not go unnoticed.
Similarly, look for a System Integrator that has a strong relationship with the software solution provider. In cases where extra leverage is needed to resolve unanticipated software problems, these firms command priority status. There is tremendous value in such a relationship.
TIP #9: Know the Cost Before You Start
Everyone knows how costly an implementation project can be. That is why we are all so intrigued when we learn of a major system disaster that resulted in huge budget overruns. Will your System Integrator mitigate your risk of being one of those stories?
Look for a System Integrator that is willing to share some of the risk by incorporating a fixed fee arrangement on portions of the project or fixed billing rates for the duration of the project assuming the project scope remains constant. Are they flexible about limiting out-of-pocket expenses? If you have a sense that the System Integrator is inflexible when it comes to pricing, this may be a signal to look elsewhere.
TIP #10: Communication is Key!
Successful implementations are all about effective communications at a variety of internal and external levels. The System Integrator and their functional consultants will be interfacing with your management and staff on a daily basis. Look for a System Integrator that demonstrates their ability to communicate as evidenced by the manner in which they schedule meetings, present their Project Team and their proposal materials, and respond to open issues.
We used to think that evaluating and selecting the ?right? enterprise system was the key to success. Well think again! After much industry consolidation, today?s options are dominated by Epicor, Infor, Lawson, Oracle, SAP, Sage, and Microsoft Dynamics solutions with a good number of Best of Breed industry-specific choices sprinkled in for consideration. The good news is that although fewer choices remain, the software products themselves offer a robust features and functions often packaged as a suite.
A Key Question - So if there are fewer alternative choices and you do a good job of matching your key requirements to the features and functions offered by the available software solutions, don?t you have a high probability of a successful implementation?
The logical response is ?yes,? but experience says otherwise. In today?s market, selecting the ?right? software does not guarantee a successful implementation. Why? Because with the level of sophistication of all these products, whether they be a Tier 1 or Tier 2 solution, there is a significant level of complexity to properly configure and test the solution before going live ? not to mention the challenge of training existing user in the proper use of the new system. In addition, in almost all cases, putting in a new system today requires rethinking your existing business processes.
So where do you go for that guarantee, that warm and fuzzy feeling that your implementation will be successful and finish close to your budget? Much of the answer rests within the composition of your internal project team. Another key success factor is the competencies of the System Integrator that you engage to train your team and design, configure, and test the system.
How Do You Select the Right System Integrator?
Many years of experience in working with a broad scope of System Integrators has lead to the conclusion that some Integrators are better than others. This is probably not a surprise.
While none of the tips below are infallible, there are ways to lessen your chances of choosing a poor partner for implementation.
Here are 10 simple and effective guidelines to assist in selecting the ?right? System Integrator for your project:
TIP #1: Select an Experienced Implementation Team
Regardless of the name of the firm on the business card, the bottom-line is to assess the experience and skills of the specific individuals that comprise the proposed Project Team and make sure that each of the functional areas to be addressed has a functional expert assigned to the Team. The more important a functional area is to your business, the more important it is that you trust the team member responsible for this area.
It is also important to know that some of the key individual members of the System Integrators team have worked together in the past. Effective communication is a key to success and sometimes the functional consultants are recruited just for your project and may be meeting their team mates for the first time. This can be a warning of problems ahead.
Incorporate added protection by negotiating the option to change team players if one or more is jeopardizing the success of your implementation.
TIP #2: Validate the Project Scope and Approach before Project Kick-Off
Make sure that the selected System Integrator has provided you with a detailed Statement of Work document that clearly describes the scope of work to be performed, identifies all assumptions or exclusions, delineates responsibilities, and clearly explains proposed fees.
A System Integrator that chooses to be vague is taking that approach for its own benefit, not yours. If the system integration firm refuses to provide an adequate level of detail to support the planned implementation activities, look elsewhere. This is not the time to simply trust a vendor.
TIP #3: Look for Relevant Industry Expertise
You looked for a system that can address the unique features and functions for your industry. Make sure that the selected System Integrator brings a similar familiarity and relevant references to the project. You don?t want to encounter a situation where the assigned functional consultants do not understand the unique requirements that are mandated within your industry. The design and configuration stage of the implementation is not the time for the external implementation team to learn all the nuances of your industry.
TIP #4: Can They Actually Do System Integration?
More often than not, you are implementing a new enterprise solution that will require integration to other in-house developed or third-party solutions. Does your System Integrator bring with it the technical resources to accomplish the required level of integration?
When a System Integrator looks to your internal team to develop the required interfaces into the new system it may be a signal to consider other options. You may be asked to participate in the integration process, but a good implementation partner will have the necessary technical resources to accomplish the required integration. They may even offer the use of less costly off-shore resources to effectively manage integration costs.
TIP #5: Is Data Conversion Too Much to Ask?
No implementation can progress successfully without converting existing data into the new system. Both static and dynamic files require planning and mapping from legacy systems to the new database. The selected System Integrator must bring the tools and expertise to successfully convert required data files.
It is difficult to convert historical transactional data, but when it comes to routine master file data, your partner should provide you with a process to efficiently map the old formats to the new. One of the primary causes of implementation project delays and budget overruns is the inability to convert and validate data. Pick a System Integrator that can work with you to make data conversion as easy as possible.
TIP #6: Can the System Integrator Introduce Business Process Improvements?
Remember that you are implementing a new system. Don?t settle for a System Integrator that supports the status quo. A system is not just the hardware and software but also encompasses your defined organizational responsibilities and supporting business processes. A good System Integrator will understand the best practices built into the software and possess the depth of experience to introduce alternative work flow or business process methodologies within the scope of the work being performed.
TIP #7: Does your System Integrator Choose to Plan or Plan to React?
Look for a System Integrator that promotes a methodology that will provide a reasonable level of comfort that the project will be performed on-time and within budget. You wouldn?t hire an a firm to build a house without blueprints, right? Don?t hire a System Integrator that can?t describe the methodology that they will be using to build your system and bring you and your staff to a successful ?Go-Live? status.
TIP #8: Not All System Integrators are Equal, Look for Value-Add
With experience, you get System Integrators that can provide libraries of tools (programmed routines, utilities, reports, etc.) that they can utilize to simplify and streamline the implementation process. These are Value-Add features that should not go unnoticed.
Similarly, look for a System Integrator that has a strong relationship with the software solution provider. In cases where extra leverage is needed to resolve unanticipated software problems, these firms command priority status. There is tremendous value in such a relationship.
TIP #9: Know the Cost Before You Start
Everyone knows how costly an implementation project can be. That is why we are all so intrigued when we learn of a major system disaster that resulted in huge budget overruns. Will your System Integrator mitigate your risk of being one of those stories?
Look for a System Integrator that is willing to share some of the risk by incorporating a fixed fee arrangement on portions of the project or fixed billing rates for the duration of the project assuming the project scope remains constant. Are they flexible about limiting out-of-pocket expenses? If you have a sense that the System Integrator is inflexible when it comes to pricing, this may be a signal to look elsewhere.
TIP #10: Communication is Key!
Successful implementations are all about effective communications at a variety of internal and external levels. The System Integrator and their functional consultants will be interfacing with your management and staff on a daily basis. Look for a System Integrator that demonstrates their ability to communicate as evidenced by the manner in which they schedule meetings, present their Project Team and their proposal materials, and respond to open issues.
System Selection
Selecting the ?Right? System at the ?Right? Price
Define your business needs by sitting down with all of the business areas that will be affected by the new system. Your business requirements need to be defined prior to starting the software selection process.
Establish a realistic budget for the project so that you can pre-qualify vendor solutions that should be evaluated. Check out the RJMC ERP Calculator to help you determine your budget.
With the needs of stakeholders in mind, determine what features and functions you need as opposed to those that you want.
Don?t let your people get locked in to the way they do their jobs today. Prepare your staff to evaluate based on how the new software could work for them, rather than how it differs from today?s procedures.
Secure upper management buy-in before you start the selection project. Without this buy-in, your project will stall.
Ensure that your selection project has a Beginning, Middle, and an End. Your project team needs to know where the project is headed and how long it will take to get there.
Evaluate the system integrators that will be responsible for making the software work for your company. A selection process that results in the ?right? software must also be implemented by the ?right? system integrator. A very important secret to success!
Invite RJMC in to work with your company to take maximum advantage of the RJMC expertise that led to the Seven Secrets of Successful System Selections.
As larger software providers continue to gobble up smaller firms, it is more important than ever to have an informed perspective on what these large solutions offer as compared to the value that smaller but often-times no less robust packages can provide to your business. RJMC will help you match your business needs with these offerings ? the key to success in any selection project!
Call us to learn more at (310) 445 -5300.
Our Ideas | Tags: ERP, ERP Selection, IT Strategy
Refractive Thinker
LinkedIn Groups
Group: The Refractive Thinker
Subject: Announcement: The Refractive Thinker Press: Spring Author's Call
Calling all Authors: Doctoral Graduate Publishing Opportunity: Spring 2010
The Refractive Thinker Press presents their Spring publications of The Refractive Thinker?: Volume IV: Leadership Ethics and Volume V: Globalization. Each volume of this anthology will showcase 12 authors to promote their scholarly accomplishments within these specific topic areas. Each author will be featured with a short personal biography with picture, as well as a chapter length feature to highlight a synopsis of their dissertation or other scholarly materials. The Refractive Thinker? series is Peer Reviewed, includes our companion website: http://www.refractivethinker.com , as well as a new Mentor program. Please visit for more about our first three volumes.
The Refractive Thinker? series has been submitted for four awards: IBPA Ben Franklin Awards, The Eric Hofer Awards, The Lukas Prize Project (Columbia University) and the 2009 IPPY Awards (Winners announced in the Spring). The RT has also been featured for the November issue of The Phoenix Focus (p. 25). https://alumni.phoenix.edu/alumni-services/phoenix-focus.aspx
Please contact Dr. Cheryl A. Lentz at drcheryllentz@gmail.com for further information. This is a great opportunity to be part of an aggregate publishing solution that shares both the cost and the promotion, and is internationally published! See yourself published with your colleagues! Contact Dr. Lentz today as the commitment deadline is January 15th, 2010; with deadline for written materials: Volume IV: February 12, 2010 and Volume V: March 12, 2010.
Calling all Authors: Masters Graduate Publishing Opportunity
Debuting this spring will be our Graduate Anthology Series: MasterMinds: Volume I: Abstracts and Essays. This will feature Master?s level Graduates to highlight a synopsis of their Master?s thesis or other scholarly materials. Commitment deadline is January 15th, 2010, with deadline for written materials: March 1, 2010.
We look forward welcoming you to the Refractive Thinker Family.
The Refractive Thinker? where discriminating authors publish.
Posted By Dr. Cheryl Lentz
Group: The Refractive Thinker
Subject: Announcement: The Refractive Thinker Press: Spring Author's Call
Calling all Authors: Doctoral Graduate Publishing Opportunity: Spring 2010
The Refractive Thinker Press presents their Spring publications of The Refractive Thinker?: Volume IV: Leadership Ethics and Volume V: Globalization. Each volume of this anthology will showcase 12 authors to promote their scholarly accomplishments within these specific topic areas. Each author will be featured with a short personal biography with picture, as well as a chapter length feature to highlight a synopsis of their dissertation or other scholarly materials. The Refractive Thinker? series is Peer Reviewed, includes our companion website: http://www.refractivethinker.com , as well as a new Mentor program. Please visit for more about our first three volumes.
The Refractive Thinker? series has been submitted for four awards: IBPA Ben Franklin Awards, The Eric Hofer Awards, The Lukas Prize Project (Columbia University) and the 2009 IPPY Awards (Winners announced in the Spring). The RT has also been featured for the November issue of The Phoenix Focus (p. 25). https://alumni.phoenix.edu/alumni-services/phoenix-focus.aspx
Please contact Dr. Cheryl A. Lentz at drcheryllentz@gmail.com for further information. This is a great opportunity to be part of an aggregate publishing solution that shares both the cost and the promotion, and is internationally published! See yourself published with your colleagues! Contact Dr. Lentz today as the commitment deadline is January 15th, 2010; with deadline for written materials: Volume IV: February 12, 2010 and Volume V: March 12, 2010.
Calling all Authors: Masters Graduate Publishing Opportunity
Debuting this spring will be our Graduate Anthology Series: MasterMinds: Volume I: Abstracts and Essays. This will feature Master?s level Graduates to highlight a synopsis of their Master?s thesis or other scholarly materials. Commitment deadline is January 15th, 2010, with deadline for written materials: March 1, 2010.
We look forward welcoming you to the Refractive Thinker Family.
The Refractive Thinker? where discriminating authors publish.
Posted By Dr. Cheryl Lentz
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
How to create Jobs?
The White House can't seem to understand that it all starts with taxation. You have to put money in people's pockets and then trust the American consumers and businesses to do what is best with it -- let capitalism run its course. You can't stimulate job growth without stimulating spending. That said, the tax credits that have been proposed are silly and meaningless. Tax credits for new hires were included as part of the original recovery bill, and it's apparent they did no good whatsoever. Given the chance on FOX Business News tomorrow, I'm going to suggest the following actions to boost job growth:
1. Implement a meaningful payroll tax holiday for both employers AND employees (January 1st to July 1st, or better yet, ALL of 2010).
2. Permanently abolish the capital gains tax on any investments made in eligible small businesses (fewer than $100MM or under 500 employees) during 2010.
3. Repeal or drastically modify Sarbanes-Oxley, as it has only hampered business growth and hasn't done nearly as much good as was intended (I call it the "Accountant Full-Employment Act").
4. Get health reform RIGHT -- the plans in circulation are still missing two very important things: tort reform and the ability to purchase health insurance across state lines.
I'd also like to see our elected officials stop demagoguing business as "evil." That small change would make a big difference, because it's businesses that create jobs, not temporary government spending programs (when they call them "investments," watch out . . . where are our returns???). They'd like us to believe that government creates jobs, but it doesn't -- it only creates work and our tax dollars are expropriated to pay for this. It's the small and mid-sized businesses that will create the jobs that will put money in people's pockets and ultimately stimulate spending and help put money in people's pockets. We can't forget that.
So, be sure to tune in to FOX Business News at 9:15 tomorrow morning (better turn the TV on at 9:00am, so you don't miss it.) Seen you then!
Dedicated to Your Continued Success,
Chris
Christopher G. Hurn,
CEO/Cofounder
Mercantile Capital Corporation
1. Implement a meaningful payroll tax holiday for both employers AND employees (January 1st to July 1st, or better yet, ALL of 2010).
2. Permanently abolish the capital gains tax on any investments made in eligible small businesses (fewer than $100MM or under 500 employees) during 2010.
3. Repeal or drastically modify Sarbanes-Oxley, as it has only hampered business growth and hasn't done nearly as much good as was intended (I call it the "Accountant Full-Employment Act").
4. Get health reform RIGHT -- the plans in circulation are still missing two very important things: tort reform and the ability to purchase health insurance across state lines.
I'd also like to see our elected officials stop demagoguing business as "evil." That small change would make a big difference, because it's businesses that create jobs, not temporary government spending programs (when they call them "investments," watch out . . . where are our returns???). They'd like us to believe that government creates jobs, but it doesn't -- it only creates work and our tax dollars are expropriated to pay for this. It's the small and mid-sized businesses that will create the jobs that will put money in people's pockets and ultimately stimulate spending and help put money in people's pockets. We can't forget that.
So, be sure to tune in to FOX Business News at 9:15 tomorrow morning (better turn the TV on at 9:00am, so you don't miss it.) Seen you then!
Dedicated to Your Continued Success,
Chris
Christopher G. Hurn,
CEO/Cofounder
Mercantile Capital Corporation
PL Enterprize software
RC decided to use another company to identify software for the company. They have no specific business knowledge, will be problematic and cost considerably more.
Sales Planning
Dear Ed,
The next Silver Prot?g? call is today, December 2, 2009 at 4:00pm Pacific. This call will be led by me.
If you can't make today's call, there will be another Silver Prot?g? call tomorrow, Thursday, December 3, 2009 at 4:00 pm Pacific led by special guest, Kris Thompson delivering the same content.
The phone number to use is 712-432-0404. The pin is 513553#.
Go to www.SalesChampionCommunity.com and connect with other Silver Prot?g? Members during the call.
The next 5 Prot?g? calls are dedicated to helping you complete your 2010 Sales and Marketing Plan.
Make a commitment to participate in the next 5 Prot?g? calls.
Sales and marketing plan versus business plan
A business plan is primarily used to raise money.
Business plans typically take 80-120 hours to create.
A sales and marketing plan is used to map out sales and marketing results during a specific time frame like a year. You could have 1-week sales and marketing plan or a one month sales and marketing plan also.
A one year sales and marketing plan takes 4-12 hours to create.
1-week sales and marketing plan takes about 1 hour to create.
A 1-month sales and marketing plan takes about 2 hours to create.
The due date of your plan is December 31 at 11:59 pm pacific. You will receive a letter grade. Complete your plan and email it to wins@ericlofholm.com on or before the deadline and you get an A.
Your completed plan should be no more than 3 pages.
Here are the components of a 1-year sales and marketing plan.
Ultimate outcomes for the year
Annual revenue projections (sales results)
Annual marketing strategy (marketing tactics)
Ultimate outcomes for each month
Monthly revenue projections
Monthly marketing strategy
Monthly projects (if any)
The first part of the plan is the annual ultimate outcomes and the annual revenue projections.
Think about when most people set goals for the year.
Today on our call make a decision to work on your sales and marketing plan throughout the month of December.
Promise
Email your completed plan to eric@ericlofholm.com by December 31.
Promise versus a Goal
We have all set goals that we didn't achieve. You may have done this so many times that you have lost faith in your ability to achieve your goals. A promise is very different though. A promise is a much stronger commitment. Make a promise to complete your 3 page or less plan by December 31.
Email me right now the following email.
Send it to wins@ericlofholm.com
Subject: I promise
I promise to complete my 2010 sales and marketing plan by December 31 and email it to you Eric.
Your name will appear in the Prot?g? Notes for completing the assignment.
Focus on completion versus perfection - This is a distinction about action. You will receive an A by completing the plan. It doesn't need to be perfect.
Everything counts- Every action that you take to move your life forward counts.
Homework
Create a file in your computer called - 2010 Sales and Marketing Plan.
Create an outline in the next 7 days using the ideas we discussed today about how to create a sales and marketing plan.
Template
Your Name Sales and Marketing Plan for 2010
Ultimate Outcomes for 2010 (goals)
Annual revenue projections (sales results)
Annual Marketing Strategy (marketing tactics)
Annual Projects
January
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
February
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
March
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
April
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
May
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
June
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
July
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
August
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
September
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
October
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
November
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
December
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
3. Final Message
Most people will not begin to think about their 2010 plan until New Year's Eve. We are currently in November. You are way ahead of the game. Keep up with the weekly assignments I am going to give you. By doing this you will create the best plan you have ever created.
The next Silver Prot?g? call is today, December 2, 2009 at 4:00pm Pacific. This call will be led by me.
If you can't make today's call, there will be another Silver Prot?g? call tomorrow, Thursday, December 3, 2009 at 4:00 pm Pacific led by special guest, Kris Thompson delivering the same content.
The phone number to use is 712-432-0404. The pin is 513553#.
Go to www.SalesChampionCommunity.com and connect with other Silver Prot?g? Members during the call.
The next 5 Prot?g? calls are dedicated to helping you complete your 2010 Sales and Marketing Plan.
Make a commitment to participate in the next 5 Prot?g? calls.
Sales and marketing plan versus business plan
A business plan is primarily used to raise money.
Business plans typically take 80-120 hours to create.
A sales and marketing plan is used to map out sales and marketing results during a specific time frame like a year. You could have 1-week sales and marketing plan or a one month sales and marketing plan also.
A one year sales and marketing plan takes 4-12 hours to create.
1-week sales and marketing plan takes about 1 hour to create.
A 1-month sales and marketing plan takes about 2 hours to create.
The due date of your plan is December 31 at 11:59 pm pacific. You will receive a letter grade. Complete your plan and email it to wins@ericlofholm.com on or before the deadline and you get an A.
Your completed plan should be no more than 3 pages.
Here are the components of a 1-year sales and marketing plan.
Ultimate outcomes for the year
Annual revenue projections (sales results)
Annual marketing strategy (marketing tactics)
Ultimate outcomes for each month
Monthly revenue projections
Monthly marketing strategy
Monthly projects (if any)
The first part of the plan is the annual ultimate outcomes and the annual revenue projections.
Think about when most people set goals for the year.
Today on our call make a decision to work on your sales and marketing plan throughout the month of December.
Promise
Email your completed plan to eric@ericlofholm.com by December 31.
Promise versus a Goal
We have all set goals that we didn't achieve. You may have done this so many times that you have lost faith in your ability to achieve your goals. A promise is very different though. A promise is a much stronger commitment. Make a promise to complete your 3 page or less plan by December 31.
Email me right now the following email.
Send it to wins@ericlofholm.com
Subject: I promise
I promise to complete my 2010 sales and marketing plan by December 31 and email it to you Eric.
Your name will appear in the Prot?g? Notes for completing the assignment.
Focus on completion versus perfection - This is a distinction about action. You will receive an A by completing the plan. It doesn't need to be perfect.
Everything counts- Every action that you take to move your life forward counts.
Homework
Create a file in your computer called - 2010 Sales and Marketing Plan.
Create an outline in the next 7 days using the ideas we discussed today about how to create a sales and marketing plan.
Template
Your Name Sales and Marketing Plan for 2010
Ultimate Outcomes for 2010 (goals)
Annual revenue projections (sales results)
Annual Marketing Strategy (marketing tactics)
Annual Projects
January
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
February
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
March
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
April
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
May
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
June
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
July
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
August
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
September
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
October
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
November
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
December
Ultimate Outcomes
Sales Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Projects
3. Final Message
Most people will not begin to think about their 2010 plan until New Year's Eve. We are currently in November. You are way ahead of the game. Keep up with the weekly assignments I am going to give you. By doing this you will create the best plan you have ever created.
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