How to use process to make up for a lack of resources

Kareem Elsirafy
Aug 28, 2017 · 3 min read
Building Processes In Your Organization

Kareem Elsirafy on Resource Allocation: Using Process to Mitigate a Lack of Available Resources

Few startups have the luxury of operating without any regard for budgetary concerns; instead, it is typically the case that every startup entrepreneur has to rely on a variety of strategies to overcome the budgetary limitations naturally associated with an early stage startup endeavor. A general lack of resources is the most obvious limiting factor endured by startups, underscoring the reason it is so critical for startup entrepreneurs to recognize the many ways in which good process is an effective tool for mitigating a lack of resources during the initial stages of a startup’s growth.

The Importance of Process

It is worth noting that effective processes are necessary for ensuring the success of any endeavor, regardless of whether that endeavor is fully funded or must operate for an extended period of time with severely limited resources. In developing a process, it is also necessary for startup entrepreneurs to recognize the specific ways in which process and innovation interact with one another.

Focusing too much on process, for example, might limit the feedback opportunities needed to refine or improve the startup’s products or services. Neglecting process entirely, however, is a risky proposition often leading to scaling issues in the future. Striking the ideal balance between innovation and process is therefore necessary to ensure the startup is positioned for success in spite of any resource limitations.

Focus on Optimizing Efficiency

Efficiency is paramount in developing an effective process when resources are limited in some way. Operating within the context of the “Build, Measure, Learn” model of development, startups should focus on optimizing efficiency in such a way that the final stage, learning, is reached in as little time as possible. Tightening up the process in such a way allows the startup to recognize the areas in which adjustments are necessary while devoting resources only to the tasks considered most essential.

Generating Results Despite Resource Limitations

Startups that adopt efficient processes resulting in quick timelines for the development and refinement of deliverables are more likely to thrive despite the existence of clear resource limitations. When streamlining developmental processes, striking the right balance between innovation priorities and process priorities is critical. At a certain point, increased process development will yield diminishing returns. Those over engineered processes can create future risk for a startup.

With a balanced approach to process in which efficiency is clearly optimized, startup entrepreneurs can easily overcome any challenges associated with the limited availability of resources. Innovation should never be sacrificed for the sake of efficiency, but since the reverse is also true, the need for balance between efficiency and innovation ought to be plainly evident — especially for entrepreneurs who do not have the luxury of access to unlimited resources yet still aspire to create a successful startup venture.

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Known for providing expert strategic planning advice by leveraging a unique understanding of causal relationship economics as well as operational design.

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