Checklists- a great tool for doing things right
Good processes will consistently outperform really smart people over time. Checklists are an amazing tool because they are easy to create and easy to update. I probably don't need to tell anyone exactly what a checklist is but just in case, here is a link to Wikipedia with a definition: checklists.
I was recently reminded of the power of this simple tool when I was listening to NPR. In the segment, a well respected surgeon was talking about the results he has seen by using checklists. He said that checklists have reduced at least one major problem per week. He further drew a comparison between a surgical checklist to a pilot's checklist. The results are clear: checklists are effective in all areas of life. Here is a link to the article on NPR's website: 'Atul Gawande's Checklist' For Surgery Success.
Here is how to create a simple checklist:
- Write down a list of things that have to get done.
- Put them in the order in which they need to be completed.
- Do the project.
- Consult the checklist and mark off each one as you do it.
- Update your checklist with things you learned or may have forgotten on the initial checklist.
Checklists are best suited for projects or activities that are frequently repeated and they are particularly useful for reviewing your approach to solving everyday issues. For example, let's say that you are about to have a meeting with a group of important people. Here is a simple example of a meeting checklist:
- Put together an agenda
- Determine who should review the agenda and have them review it
- Determine who should attend
- Send meeting invites
- Prepare material to discuss with attendees
- Send meeting reminder 30 minutes before the beginning of the meeting
- Hold the meeting
- Type up action items and send to attendees
- Follow up with attendees
