Complex Idea or Simple Solution?

Recently, I was asked to use a "Pizza Tracker" type tool that had been created by a team member.  The concept was great, it's just that I would be doing double the work of entering information that was already populated somewhere else.  It was a visibility issue.  I was the only one who had access to the info, not the ones who needed it most.

I brainstormed for a couple of days and tried a function from the database housing the information requested.  That functionality failed so I tried a different approach.  It was a simple approach, but it worked!   And it took all of 3 minutes to complete.  I created a template with the “Pizza Tracker” concept but added my own twist. I forwarded the completed tool to the team and the positive feedback has been great.

The real proof that the tool is working though is not just the ability to track projects from start to finish, but it actually has reduced project turn around time by 50%!  I receive calls frequently letting me know that the tool is great and it cuts down on inquiries internally and externally.   

There is no greater accomplishment in a career than creating functional tools that bring efficiency and productivity to an organization.  Yet, ideas or tools don’t have to be complex to bring about positive change.  If you have a simple idea and you’re afraid to share it, it won’t do any good.  Don’t be afraid to share.  You never know the impact it will have!

Joy Jahandar