I’m no computer or programming expert, but I recently came across some articles about a concept from computer science called Service Oriented Architecture (SOA).
There was a reference to the difference between what are called “real dependencies†and “artificial dependenciesâ€. In my non-computer-expert world, I realized this was a powerful concept when applied to small businessesâ€"because every business has many business dependencies that hold them back.
To give a quick summary, a real dependency is where one computer system depends on the output (features and functions) of another system. The second system truly needs whatever output the first system creates. And, if it doesn’t get it, then the whole process grinds to a halt. It is a basic reliance of one system on another system that cannot be eliminated.
An artificial dependency is a restriction or limitation placed on a system that was created by the system architects. In other words, it is only a barrier because someone made it one.
Here’s a “non-computer†example to demonstrate the difference:
Suppose you travel to a foreign country. Depending on the country, you may need to take along a “power adapter†so you can operate your computer, hairdryer, etc. given a particular country’s size and shape of electrical plug. Not every country has the same shape and size electrical outlets that all our appliances use.
In this case, the real dependency is your need to get power. That is the actual end result that you want.
The fact that you need various adapters to fit various size outlets is an artificial dependency. It is a restriction created by the “provider†of the solution that limits your ability to get the end result (the electrical engineers in the country designed a particular standard of wall plug that you must conform to).
Now think about your business. Are you creating artificial dependencies for your customers and prospects
The answer is a resounding yes. Every business has them. It’s just that you haven’t realized them for what they are before now.
This is a very powerful concept that you can harness in your business. To take advantage of this concept created by computer gurus, follow these four simple steps (it’s best if you enlist the thoughts and energies of your team members for this as well):
- On a blank piece of paper, identify each major element of your business process. Think about how a customer or prospect first comes into contact with your business, and the journey they take toward becoming a valuable repeat customer. For example, one of the ways would likely beâ€"let’s say it’s them calling in to your business and setting up a meeting with you to find out how you can help them.
- On the left side of the paper, for each of those elements, identify the real dependency. What is the actual “end result†that particular element of your business is supposed to create Be prepared. Although it sounds easy, sometimes this seemingly simple step actually turns out to be really tough. Following our example from above, the real dependency is getting that prospect to actually come in for that initial meeting with you.
- On the right side of the page, list ALL (and I mean EVERYâ€"because there’s likely to be a bunch) of artificial dependencies. List all the things that get in the way and slow down or complicate the achievement of the real dependency you’ve identified for each element. In our example, one artificial dependency would be that the person who answers the phone in your business does not have instant access to your calendar to book the meetingâ€"instead they have to take a message and have you call the person back.
- Once you’ve slugged it out that far, pick a few artificial dependencies and develop some plans and action steps to eliminate them. As you eliminate them, pick more from your list and get to work on eliminating those. Keep going and see how many you can eliminate.
What you will find, over time, is that you will have more fun and less stress, and you will improve your financial results.
Your prospects and customers will love it. And so will you.
Recycle Concept Photo via Shutterstock
