What Are The Keys To Effective Ergonomics Systems In The Short And Long Term? Part 4

This is the final blog in the 4 part series on the 4 M’s to effective ergonomics systems.  The 4^th M stands for Momentum!  Momentum or energy is continually needed to drive the system on a continual basis.  First, momentum is needed in you (me) both inwardly and outwardly.  The keys to inward momentum are:

• Prioritize & Plan…day, week, month, quarter
• Expect & Anticipate the Unexpected
• Know Your Organization (Culture, Politics)
• Keep Up with Your Metrics
  • Be prepared to answer:  How is the “x” system/project doing today?

The inner momentum is outwardly reflected and drives the system forward by the following:

• Meet with your CEO, immediate supervisor, champion regularly
• Always have an agenda for every meeting
• Know/find out the other priorities for the…
  • Company
  • CEO/CFO/COO
  • Immediate supervisor
  • Champion (if different)
  • Collaborating departments

It is essential to stay on top of other new initiatives (“fads”) going on within the company in order to anticipate their impact on the time, resources and money that may or may not impact the ergonomics system.

The overall key to the long term effectiveness of the ergonomics system is for it to become ingrained in the culture and business systems of the company.  I believe there are 10 fundamental principles for sustaining momentum of any system.  The 10 are:

1. Commitment—the system isn’t a fad
2. Consistent—words match deeds 100% of the time
3. Communication—can never have too much, too all levels of the company
4. Adaptable—continuous evaluation and improvement of the system
5. Accountable—people held responsible for their part of the system; integrated into performance reviews
6. Respect—all opinions whether good or bad; learn from them
7. Inviting—want participation from everyone at all levels; the best ideas come those who do, not those who watch them do
8. Appreciation—say “thank you!” and mean it
9. Creative—do things differently; change it up regularly; keep it fresh
10. Fun!—defines itself

In summary the 4 Key M’s to effective and sustainable ergonomics systems are:

1. Money
2. Marketing
3. Mindset
4. Momentum

Do you agree?  What are your keys?