Boring, But True: Ten Reasons Why Startups Need Documentation

in Forum: Strategies & Tactics for Getting Efficient
Source of this discusssion: /articles/9102/1/why-startups-need-documentation.html Page description: Find out why documentation is the major difference between a large successful business and a small struggling one.
May. 01 2008 at 12:40 PM
dgunter Posted by: dgunter
Hi Sam--

This is so very true.  I work with business owners making 6 and 7 figures annually who are only now getting around to documenting their systems because they're tearing their hair out trying to do it all.  Since I only work with virtual companies, right now I'm doing some research on the best online collaboration service/software to use where all the procedures can be kept and all team members have access.  I've used CentralDesktop.com and am now exploring Collanos.com.

If you want to figure out how to document your procedures, check out http://www.OnlineBusinessDashboard.com.

HTH!

Donna

Donna Gunter, Internet Marketing Coach
http://www.OnlineBizU.com
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May. 01 2008 at 1:09 PM
Results Posted by: Results
Sam,
Imagine that!  People using a system prosper and benefit more than those that don't!  I am a true believer in creating systems and procedures that make business duplicatible.  That's what made Henry Ford a rich man.  That's what makes McDonald's so successful.  It's the ability to identify what works best, put it into a process that others can use, and then duplicate it over and over.  Maybe I'm an anomaly, but I get excited when I find out a process or system that works and I get to put it to paper.  This principle can be even applied to things that most people don't think can be "captured", such as selling.  For anything to well and consistently, a process has to be followed.
Living each day with purpose,
Edward Lewellen
May. 01 2008 at 2:19 PM
PowerMark Posted by: PowerMark
Amen, Sam!  Our firm has grown significantly since I started it three years ago, largely because I had the vision of a much bigger company when I began and documenting best practices has been a priority since day one.  Our CPA says our books are among the cleanest he's ever seen, and our clients are extremely loyal.  I contribute much of our success to our discipline to document.  Great article.
May. 01 2008 at 3:39 PM
SherylCPA Posted by: SherylCPA

Donna (and others),

Thanks for the references; I wasn't familiar with the services you mentioned.  I'm always on the lookout for new on-line applications, especially if they're FREE!

Depending on your particular requirements, some of these might also be helpful to you:

www.dimdim.com

www.Zoho.com

http://www.google.com/a/help/intl/en/var_1b.html

www.accomplice.com/

 

Sheryl Schuff, CPA

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