Organizations are constantly seeking ways to eliminate waste and optimize their operations. One often overlooked source of waste is the untapped talent within their workforce. A key contributor to this waste is structuring roles around specialized activities, which inadvertently restricts the extent of contributions towards overall goals and outcomes.
This issue becomes particularly evident when it comes to meeting compliance obligations. Despite assembling teams of specialists to address various aspects of compliance, organizations often struggle to achieve the desired outcomes.
The root of the problem lies in managing individual tasks instead of focusing on the holistic success of compliance programs and systems. It is not a lack of talent that hinders progress; rather, it is the under-utilization of existing talent in key areas that hinders efforts to achieve better outcomes.
Compliance efforts require a multifaceted approach that goes beyond individual tasks. While specialization has its advantages, such as developing expertise in specific areas, it can create silos that prevent collaboration and limit the impact of individual contributions.
By broadening the scope of employee roles and encouraging cross-functional collaboration, organizations can tap into the diverse talents of their workforce. Breaking down the barriers of specialization allows for a broader understanding of compliance obligations and fosters collaboration towards achieving desired outcomes not just specific objectives.
The following measures will help unlock available talent and help improve overall compliance effectiveness:
1. Aligning Talent with Compliance Programs:
Organizations should align talent more effectively with compliance programs and systems. This involves identifying individuals and teams with the right skills and knowledge to contribute to compliance initiatives beyond their specialized areas.
By actively involving these individuals in the design, implementation, and evaluation of compliance programs, organizations can leverage their collective expertise and experience. This approach ensures that compliance efforts are not fragmented but rather driven by a comprehensive understanding of the broader objectives.
2. Developing Integrative Compliance Strategies:
Instead of solely focusing on managing individual tasks, organizations need to develop integrative compliance strategies. This entails considering the interconnectedness of compliance efforts and understanding how each task contributes to the overall success of the program.
By taking a systems thinking approach, organizations can identify areas where the collective talent of their workforce can be harnessed to optimize compliance outcomes. This may involve restructuring roles or creating cross-functional teams dedicated to compliance, ensuring that the right talent is deployed where it can make the most impact.
3. Embracing Technology and Automation:
Another way to unlock unused talent is through the strategic use of technology and automation. Routine and repetitive tasks can be automated, freeing up valuable human resources to focus on higher-value activities.
By streamlining compliance processes through technology, organizations can optimize the utilization of their talent, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to more strategic aspects of compliance. This shift allows employees to apply their skills, knowledge, and critical thinking to address complex challenges and drive positive outcomes.
4. Fostering a Culture of Continuous Improvement:
To fully leverage unused talent, organizations must foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement. This involves creating an environment where employees feel empowered to voice their ideas and suggestions for enhancing compliance efforts.
Encouraging innovation, providing opportunities for professional development, and recognizing and rewarding collaborative achievements will motivate employees to actively contribute their talents towards maximizing compliance outcomes.
Next Steps
Underused talent is a waste and when comes to compliance this waste hinders staying between the lines and ahead of risk which leads to possible loss and missed opportunities. In the pursuit of effective compliance, organizations must recognize the importance of utilizing their existing talent.
By moving beyond specialization, aligning talent with compliance programs, and adopting integrative strategies, organizations can unlock the potential of their workforce. Embracing technology and automation, along with fostering a culture of continuous improvement, are essential to create capacity and the opportunity for talent to be leveraged.