One of the most significant innovations in creating and implementing formal processes is the use of "workflow tools." What does that mean? You ask. That's a good question. I've not talked to many, especially in the church, who are doing anything along these lines. A "workflow process" is one that is all electronic, notifying and prompting people involved in the process along the way. Here's a simple example. … [Read more...]
The “Secret” To Church Growth
Exploring The "Highest Contributing Cause" Of Church Growth ... Based On The Data
Over our 20+ year history, we've had the following measure in place: How Did You Find Out About CCV? You would think our website, visibility from the major highway running through our target area, or direct mail advertising would be the highest contributing cause. Nope. Not even close. Are you familiar with the use of Pareto Analysis as part of any continuous improvement process? I know, it sounds technical! … [Read more...]
Decisions Based On Data
The "If It's Not Broken, Don't Fix It" Method Of Deciding What Needs "Fixing"
I'm sure you've heard the expression, "If it's not broken, don't fix it." This has been one of my fundamental guidelines for almost as long as I've been a leader. I've seen it so many times. Leaders get bored and think they need to "meddle" in something that doesn't need attention. Based on a "feeling" or "intuition," they focus on something just fine as is. Or, worse yet, a leader who thinks "the problem" is this … [Read more...]
The Performance Cycle
Helping An Organization Leverage The Knowledge And Expertise Of Its Best Leaders
It's all about scalability. How can an organization leverage its leadership? Its knowledge? There are only so many leadership people to go around, and good leaders are extremely difficult to find. So ... building a world-class organization depends on the leader's ability to develop good systems, processes, and methods and make them known (easy to access, learn about, use, and change as needed) to the entire … [Read more...]