Getting Your Operation Up to '0': The Impact of a Small Change
In the world of business operations, especially the field of HR technology, the difference between stagnation and breakthrough can often hinge on a small adjustment. This insignificant shift, much like a slight increase in temperature, has the potential to unleash a profound transformation. In this Blog we explore this concept using the analogy of melting ice from James Clears book ‘Atomic Habits’ and discover how to navigate through challenging phases.
The Analogy of Melting Ice
James Clear uses a captivating analogy in his book ‘Atomic Habits"’ Imagine being in a room with an ice cube on a table. You gradually raise the temperature from 25°F, to 26°F then to 27°F…nothing seems to change; the ice remains solid. However, once you move from 31°F to 32°F, one degree higher, something remarkable happens, the ice begins to melt. That one degree shift may appear insignificant compared to the temperature increases but it triggers a significant transformation.
This analogy beautifully illustrates the power of persistence. And emphasises that remarkable outcomes often result from consistent small efforts.
Understanding the path to success
Often, in contrast to our expectations, the path towards success is a curve. Initially when we implement changes or adopt technologies we anticipate linear growth. However reality may paint a very different picture.
The early stage, where outcomes don't align with our expectations is referred to as the 'Valley of Disappointment'. It represents the gap between what we hope for and what actually happens. Now consider what might happen if we implement a 1 degree, or a 3 degree or 5 degree change? The point here is we see projects fail to adopt, or unfortunately stopped, because they were 2°F away from seeing the change needed. Had they persisted and kept going there would have been ‘the tipping point’ where the results become visible and grow exponentially.
So what are the big reasons for not reaching this tipping point?
There are specific factors we see in the world of Innovation and HR Technology that can keep operations stuck in the ‘Valley of Disappointment’. Here are the most common:
As you can see we’re not talking about complex issues but fundamentals which are part of a standard operating governance. These areas are well recognised as important but can often be deprioritised in light of timeline pressures, new features or new critical priorities.
So what do I suggest you can do about it today
To move forward and improve your operations look for the one degree areas by taking the following steps:
In conclusion although the journey may come with challenges and moments of uncertainty, understanding the importance of persistence and making adjustments can unlock growth, adoption and ultimately success. Please don’t let these things be the reason you can’t hit the 32°F (Or ‘0’ as we know it in the UK).
Why did we decide to write this blog? Vitro want to make a difference to organisations and help them maximise their investments and create an environment of innovation, and these simple principles may be the 1 degree you’re looking for. At Vitro we support and guide this process by setting out your clear route to achieve your ambitions.
About the author
Dieter Deuer
Dieter is our Head of Technology and Innovation, he utilises his strategic leadership skills in Learning and HR to enhance the learning experience through streamlining processes. With over twenty years of expertise, Dieter has played a crucial role in harnessing technology to advance learning.
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