Process Before Software: Why Automation Projects Stall
Most stalled automation projects are process problems wearing a technology costume. Fix the workflow first.
By Owen Hartley, Partner, operations and technology , 1 min read
Most stalled automation projects are process problems wearing a technology costume. Most stalled automation projects are process problems wearing a technology costume. Fix the workflow first.
Automating a broken process makes it faster at failing
If a workflow has unclear handoffs or frequent exceptions, software will encode them. Map the process with the people who run it, remove steps that add no value and agree the standard path before any tool is configured.
Start small and measure
Automate the simplest high-volume path first and leave exceptions to people. Measure cycle time and error rate before and after, so the next phase is funded by results rather than promises.
How we apply this with clients
In client work this usually becomes one priority on the quarterly plan, with a named owner and a measure the leadership team reviews every month. Our operations partners start with a short diagnostic of where the business is today, then agree the smallest change that will make a visible difference within ninety days.
Key takeaways
- Map and simplify the process before buying tools.
- Automate the standard path first, not the exceptions.
- Measure cycle time and errors before and after.
Want to apply this in your business? Book a discovery call with a Maia Lafortezza partner.
Owen Hartley
Owen Hartley leads the firm's operations and technology practice. An industrial engineer by training, he spent twelve years running distribution and manufacturing operations before moving into advisory work. He redesigns workflows, operating rhythms and supply chains for logistics, manufacturing, healthcare and service businesses, and helps clients choose and implement technology, including practical AI, where it pays back. He is based in Milan.
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