Comprehensive Systems Approach

Understanding that the development and building process is a “system”, will  yield opportunities for efficiencies.  The system is more than just procedures.  It includes many other system parts, such as the people side of project management, the regulatory framework, information technology, physical space, and performance measurement.  Arimes Consulting’s unique approach examines opportunities to create a comprehensive performance improvement program that includes all aspects of the system.

Improving the development and building process, requires close examination of all components that influence the “system” as a whole.  Actions to improve regulatory functions are difficult to achieve unless the overall philosophy is embedded in systems thinking.  Systems thinking commands that it is the “infrastructure that drives behavior” of staff, customers, and the public.  To have an effective and efficient process, underlying infrastructures must be evaluated and improved, where required.  Our firm’s propriety system “building block” model organizes key system components and ensures that all aspects affecting development processing efficiency and predictability are considered.

These system infrastructure “building blocks©” include:

• Core Business Processes: Are the steps in the development processing system process integrated and efficient and reflect a serviced-based culture?
• People Interactions: Are communication mechanisms for staff, customers, and citizens structured to share information freely, manage projects effectively, and resolve issues or conflicts as they occur?
• Regulations and Support Documents: Are the policies, codes, and support documents that drive the review process understandable, objective, and reasonable?
• Technology:  Do the tools available to people provide for accurate and real-time information, tracking of customer projects, and assist in informed decision-making?
• Physical Space:  Does the physical environment reflect a user-friendly, service-oriented approach for customers and citizens that interact with the process?
• Organizational Structure:  Is the organization structured to be cost effective, provide appropriate resources to staff, and support a project management approach with accountability for performance?