Are too many conflicting priorities overloading staff and impacting your brand? Here are some ways to resolve the problem.

Clearly defined and achievable goals and priorities, that are realistic and properly resourced, are the foundation of any successful organization.

To remain competitive, many organizations have too many conflicting priorities and projects. Often achieving many of those priorities are not realistic within the time frame and budget allocated. And many times those priorities and projects are in conflict and do not have the number of skilled resources required to achieve success on time and within budget. This can overload staff and negatively impact service delivery and revenue, having the opposite impacts than intended.

Is your organization experiencing priority and project overload, impacting the employee experience and customer experience? Often the problem is a result of your organization structure or communication processes.

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Organizations tend to add more and more priorities and projects as a way to continue to grow. However, many organizations do not take into account conflicting priorities and downstream implications. Where one priority or project impacts the other and the other and the other. And pretty soon everything becomes a priority. But, it’s not.

So, what are some ways to fix the problem?

Perform data collection

Before making the determination of what is a priority for you or your team, collect data from others to determine if they also see it as a priority. Conduct internal (cross-functional) and external (customers and shareholders) interviews or surveys to find out where others think you need improvement, what resources are available to support delivering on priorities, and input on the best way to integrate your possible priorities and projects with those that may already be underway. Analyze data regarding how you can best collaborate with others and communicate your work. Oftentimes leaders try to do too much in a vacuum rather than get input from customers and stakeholders. Voices should be heard. Data should inform the next steps.

Identify high ROI

Utilize a framework and process to help identify and narrow down your top priorities. Consider desired outcomes in the context of long term success for the organization; which can be achieved successfully in the least time, with the least amount of budget or resources, and yield the greatest results. Think about which will have the most cross-functional positive impact. Don’t chase the latest fad. Define desired outcomes. Consider resource availability as we all have a ‘day job.’ Give thought to how changes to one priority or project may impact the success of another. Stay realistic.

Agree and align

Now that you’ve collected input, identified what is realistic, and narrowed down your priorities and projects, you need to get those responsible for supporting success aligned and in agreement. Not just on what priorities and projects should be completed first and yield the most positive impact, but also on the process and execution of deliverables and communication to support those priorities. Think cross-functionally. Consideration also needs to be given to accountability and governance for the delivery of desired outcomes.

Taking these considerations into account will help you plan and execute on mission-critical priorities. It will also help reduce employee frustration. Reduced employee frustration supports a more positive employee experience. A more positive employee experience supports a more positive customer experience. When combined, these things all support long term growth and success.

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Tolero Solutions helps organizations reduce the number of conflicting priorities and projects and focus on those that are truly necessities. We also support strategic planning, provide workshops and facilitation on strategy and execution, and help with measurement and communication of your priorities and projects. Our work leads to reduced employee turnover, improved employee and customer experience, and increased cost savings. Want to reduce your conflicting priorities and improve project execution? Let us know how we can help you.

About Scott Span, MSOD, CSM: is CEO at Tolero Solutions. As a people strategist, leadership coach, and change and transformation specialist, his work is focused on people. Through his consulting and training work he supports clients to survive and thrive through change and transition and create people-focused cultures and a great employee experience. Through his coaching work, he supports people willing to dig deeper to identify and overcome what’s holding them back, change behaviors, accelerate performance and achieve their goals.