Death by design
Doing business without proper infrastructure

A few days after the tragic bridge collapse in Minneapolis, I was listening to National Public Radio (NPR) as they spoke with a Civil Engineer on overall bridge construction and maintenance. Although I tuned in midway through the conversation; I did catch some interesting points.

One comment in particular caught my attention because it was so poignant and sobering. The comment went something like this, “…(as people) we are inclined to take things for granted when they are working well… so we don’t allocate enough money for proper repairs and maintenance.”  While the jury is still out on what caused the tragedy in Minneapolis, I can see how this principle could create a problem whether you are constructing a structure or building a business.

Of course, the repercussions of the improper maintenance of a structure are far greater than those of a business. However, when a business is poorly maintained, small cracks can become huge gaps which can lead to job losses, service disruptions, public relations nightmares, or even physical injury. So what does proper maintenance of a business entail? 

1. Develop, implement and enforce company-wide systems and procedures. Larger organizations usually have these established but they do not always enforce them. Smaller organizations may need to develop systems that can grow with the company.
2. Commission internal audits on a regular basis. Internal audits examine the operations of an organization as a whole and compare existing conditions to a predetermine standard. Auditors report their findings and make recommendations for improving internal controls.
3. Examine small, seemingly unrelated, problems. A series of mishaps or missed cues could be an indication of greater underlying issues.
4. Address the problems. Small problems left unattended can become big problems, and big problems can cripple an organization.

 What do you think, we want to hear from you?