At work, we are inclined to solve every problem as it comes. There are deadlines and client requests that keep us extremely busy at all times. If we keep using our old methods of working for an extended period, we are sure to lag behind our competitors who may invest time and money in innovating and improving their processes. In some work environments, keeping the procedures constant may appear as consistent and the leadership will feel more comfortable as long as everybody is using these proven methods. They will focus on the bottom line and rarely question the long-term implications of this type of management.
In reality, the best way of working is to solve a certain type of issue for good rather than case by case. If one can invest some additional time to solve a certain type of problem for good, this would be the best investment. For instance, if an automated program can do a certain type of calculation for a specific type of problem, it is certainly better to utilize automation. This will allow the users of these automated or improved systems to focus on other more complex and sometimes more important issues.
Professionals will perform many repetitive tasks. This is the nature of professional work. If a professional is solving completely new problems in every new project, it can even be argued that these professionals are more researchers or advanced technical consultants. Most professionals are not researchers or advanced consultants and many professionals fear automation because they think too much automation will render them obsolete at some point. In reality, no amount of automation, short of general artificial intelligence, will render any professional obsolete. However, as the world changes and the competitors invest in automation, the fear of losing the steady stream of income may become a reality.
Setting up a flexible procedure and gradually improving it to automate the bulk of the repetitive work is the key to success for most professional endeavors. This mentality will not only increase productivity, but it will also allow the employees to focus on learning new skills and resting to get ready for the next shift. More importantly, a workplace where people are not overworked and can improve themselves is a place where talent can be retained.