It is easy to ignore this when you are busy growing a business but at some point it comes back to bite.
When reviewing systems and processes I look for the desired outcome first, then determine the most efficient path without affecting quality or experience.
Often faced with random bits that were added when needed along the way.
I ask the question, does this increase or decrease the efficiency, quality or experience. When making decisions I am careful not to compromise too much on any of the three.
An area that is often overlooked are the integration points. Who or what happens just before and what occurs next. How are these events triggered and does information flow between them freely.
When you are a smaller business you can get away with having a lot of bits that are not tightly linked but look ahead as you may be adding pressure to impending pain points.
Are you making a rod for your own back?