Six Types of Flow

Does your company have a progressive tendency?

Flow:Verb

1. To proceed continuously and smoothly
2. Glide along as a stream

Flowing – Progressive tendency 

Many of us are familiar will the concept of creating flow through organisations, but how carefully have you considered how material and information flow through your business? Do you have a progressive tendency in everything you do? Here are some flows which may sound familiar.

Rapids

The pace is fast – things flow quickly, however the path is uncertain and littered with danger. It takes energy and provides exhilaration for those brave enough to take the journey, but no two journeys are ever the same. Outcomes are unpredictable and there may be casualties along the way. Bringing your adrenaline junkies on to a safer flow takes skill and persuasion.

Mill pond

Flow is static, the stagnation can encourage bacteria and parasites to thrive in this environment, ultimately becoming a major hazard. Major changes may be required to restore flow to create a healthy environment. Getting the mill wheels turning creates flow and helps bring new oxygen and life.

Canal locks

Strict rules apply at each stage of the flow. The destination is clear, as are the steps to get there. Following the rules helps provide a predictable outcome, however this comes at a heavy cost in terms of speed. Rules are based on longstanding techniques and are difficult to change. Great expertise can still bring innovation.

Reservoir

Large stocks provide a controlled flow to downstream users. The inventory provides protection from periods of low supply, but comes at a great cost to maintain. In periods of excess supply, valuable resources cannot be harnessed and our allowed to flow away. At times of drought, customers may have to reduce consumption. Getting the right balance of inventory, time and capacity ensures availability at least cost.

Ocean

Flows cover great distances creating a virtual conveyor belt. The major flows are generally predictable, but local variables make for chaotic, unpredictable variation at a micro level. Sub flows beneath the surface are not easily observed or understood. Understanding and harnessing the flows allows oceans to be crossed

The Dubai Fountain

Demand can be met at the flick of a switch. The results are impressive to observe – so much so that they draw people in - customers. Flow is precise, repeatable and configurable. Investment is high, as are returns. The investment in automation makes this a barrier to most new entrants. Knowing when to invest in automation takes skill and judgement.

So what does this mean for my business?

The above examples are far from exhaustive and every business will have its own version of flow, just as every river has its own path, speed and individual factors which affect its flow. When you think about your business, consider where flow deviates, slows, stops or is not equivalent to demand. By understanding this you’re on your way to improving your progressive tendency.

Want to know more or see how your flow problems can be solved? Get in touch www.virrata.co.uk, info@virrata.co.uk

- it’s all about flow