7 Secrets to Automate Quickly

December 9, 2024

1. Start Smart: Tackle Frustrating Tasks First

Identify the most repetitive and time-consuming processes in your workflow. The best candidates for automation:

  • Are performed regularly.
  • Have clear input and output.
  • Involve simple decisions.
  • Consume significant amounts of work time.

Example: Your lab team evaluates monthly test data and manually enters results into multiple spreadsheets. Automating this would save up to 30% of their monthly work hours.

2. Involve the Right People

Collaboration is crucial. Gather input from everyone affected by the current process and the future automation solution. Include:

  • Those who execute the task.
  • Stakeholders who rely on the results.
  • IT and management teams for integration and budget approval.

Example: Lab technicians, R&D teams, quality control, and management can offer insights to design a seamless solution.

3. Apply the 80/20 Rule

Focus on tasks that offer 80% time savings for only 20% of the effort. Prioritize high-impact tasks to maximize ROI.

Example: If visualizing metrics is tedious and time-intensive, start with automating that instead of less frequent processes.

4. Aim for Quick Wins

Build momentum with easy, impactful successes. Small, incremental victories can energize your team and validate your automation approach.

Example: Pilot the automation of one metric. Celebrate success and feedback like:

  • “We’ve already saved 2 out of 5 workdays!”
  • “New hires are onboarded immediately—previously, it took a month.”

5. Track Impact with KPIs

Set clear metrics to evaluate success and secure ongoing support. Examples of KPIs:

  • Error rates and accuracy.
  • Task completion speed.
  • Employee satisfaction.
  • Cost savings.
  • Time freed for new initiatives.

Example: After implementing automation, track onboarding time reductions or throughput increases to quantify its value.

6. Document Every Step

Create a detailed guide outlining the workflow. This ensures smooth setup, error detection, and quick onboarding for new team members.

Pro Tip: Use visuals like flowcharts or video tutorials to make the guide intuitive.

7. Celebrate Progress

Recognize achievements and keep stakeholders informed. Share updates on improvements and savings to maintain enthusiasm and commitment.

Example: Host a team-wide presentation showcasing time saved, error reductions, and testimonials from users who benefit most.

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