Whether its apps not talking to each other fully or humans, the fundamental problem is just little misunderstandings.

For e.g., a client recently pursued me for new features that were not decided previously. In a review call, it came up that they didn't really intend to, but my point of contact thought that had to be done. This resulted in a couple of weeks worth of delay at least.

Now, think of how many things in our businesses happen like this. Small things that are attributed to everyday errors, just because we are only ‘human’.

Well guess what, that's exactly the reason why systems are needed. Only when we realize the fact that none of us our perfectly capable (or willing) to have robotic rigor, the value of systems becomes visible.

So, how would a system help you handle these kinds of lil misunderstandings?

Here's the SOP:

1. Discuss it as soon as it happens

2. Find the root cause. Simply ask how did this come up with a bhaav¹ of seeking, not confronting. Remember, it's an indicator that's telling you about a deeper issue. Just asking every time it happens is usually enough.

3. If it's serious or repetitive, dig deeper into where this came from. Most of the time, you'll find it's due to either a lack of alignment of direction or miscommunication.

4. If it's miscommunication, clarify what you meant by first asking them what they understood and clarifying what you actually meant. Go back to the moment this happened. If it's misalignment, go back to why you do things in a certain way.

5. Repeat every single time. You can moderate the dosage according to the need of the person and situation. Only option is left is to improve, sooner or later.

Happy alignment!