Systems are what let a business keep its promises without the owner holding everything together. These answers cover the questions I hear most. If you want help deciding which systems to build first, request a strategy call.
Straight answers
What is a business system?
A repeatable way of getting a result: trigger, steps, owner, standard and a measure. See business systems.
What systems does a small business need?
Lead follow-up, sales, onboarding, delivery, billing, hiring and a weekly leadership rhythm are the core set.
How do I write an SOP?
Record yourself doing the task, turn it into a checklist, test it with someone new, assign an owner and publish it where the work happens. See standard operating procedures.
How detailed should process documentation be?
Enough that a capable new hire could do the task with a short conversation. See process documentation.
What is the E-Myth?
Michael Gerber’s idea that most businesses are started by technicians who confuse knowing the work with knowing the business. See E-Myth Revisited summary.
What should I automate first?
Frequent, rules-based tasks that cost money when missed. See business automation for small business.
Should I automate before I document?
No. Document and assign an owner first, then automate.
How do I keep systems from decaying?
Give each one an owner, put its number on the weekly scoreboard, and review core processes quarterly. See business scorecard.