People-Dependent Operations Aren’t Sustainable! Introducing Integrated Design: through the Eyes of the Worker

Many organizations attempt to run their operations through management systems with the hopes of standardizing outcomes across sites. In reality, the outcomes typically result in silos or multiple systems that do not “play well with others”. For instance, most high-hazard facilities have strong process safety management programs and EH&S programs, yet few integrate them from a design and execution perspective; this is further compounded when broadened to an enterprise level of an operational management system (OMS).

IMAGINE, if you will, an operation that is built around, from the lens of, and for operators. In other words, a role-based approach that simplifies the complexities of competing systems and streamlines the information for the operators, with intuitive navigation that’s easily accessible anytime.

Does the above paragraph sound like a technology-based solution?

It’s NOT, although it doesn’t start out this way.

INTEGRATED DESIGN (I-Design) is an area we have been focused on for the past few years and helping clients refresh their cultural engagement, stabilize their operations, and kick-start their stalled performance. The concept of integrated design isn’t radically different; however, the execution is where most companies stray from the path. There are keys success factors (listed below) for I-Design to work effectively:

• SEE the world through the Operator

• ENGAGE the field strategically (not just for validation but active involvement)

• HUMBLE approach (“help us, help you” vs. “I know what is needed because I worked for 30+….”)

• Continuous Improvement mindset (throughout the process)

So why do something like this and what does success look like with I-Design? (I’m glad you asked). Below is a list of some of the most common outcomes:

• Efficient operations (minimal downtime, maximum uptime)

• Continuity planning (ability to rapidly onboard talent efficiently and effectively)

• Millions in annual savings (effective learning, minimal wasted time, data-driven decision-making, safety performance improvements, etc.)

During the session, we will engage participants in the journey to help them see their operations differently, while highlighting keys steps to enable their improvement.