How can you streamline your team's workflow in Import/Export Operations?
Import/export operations involve complex and time-sensitive processes that require effective coordination and communication among different team members and stakeholders. Streamlining your team's workflow can help you reduce errors, delays, and costs, as well as improve customer satisfaction and compliance. Here are some tips on how to optimize your import/export operations workflow.
The first step to streamline your workflow is to analyze your current situation and identify the pain points, bottlenecks, and inefficiencies that affect your performance. You can use tools like flowcharts, diagrams, or checklists to map out your workflow and visualize the steps, roles, and responsibilities involved. You can also collect feedback from your team members and customers to understand their challenges, expectations, and suggestions.
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Maintain a centralized database for real-time access to up-to-date information, ensuring everyone works with accurate data. Enhance supply chain visibility using tracking technologies for proactive issue resolution. Utilize collaborative communication platforms for efficient team interaction. Develop a robust risk management strategy to navigate uncertainties. Prioritize ongoing employee training to stay informed and adaptable. Establish performance metrics and use analytics to monitor and optimize processes continuously. Embrace digital payment solutions for efficient financial transactions. Foster a culture of continuous improvement for adaptability and long-term success.
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Increase awareness, provide them with training and development. Train them to be proactive, identify red flags and tackle issues on the spot. With relevant product knowledge, competent, skillful teams will automatically find ways to streamline and operate smoothly. Then provide them with necessary technological support to enhance the efficiency.
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Alright, to make your import/export crew work like a well-oiled machine: lay down straightforward processes, use chat tools that don't make things complicated, get tech that does the boring stuff for you, make sure your team knows the ropes, and keep tweaking things based on how it's going. Be clear on who's doing what, and sort out paperwork in a way that doesn't give anyone a headache. Easy peasy, right?
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Firstly, a robust communication framework is essential. Implementing a centralized platform for real-time updates ensures seamless coordination. Secondly, leverage technology for automated documentation and tracking systems to minimize manual errors and enhance efficiency. Thirdly, cultivate a culture of collaboration and cross-functional understanding within the team, enabling smoother handovers between different stages of the operation. Lastly, invest in continuous training to keep the team abreast of industry changes and evolving regulations. By amalgamating technology, effective communication, and a knowledgeable team, the workflow can be optimized, fostering a more agile and responsive Import/Export operation.
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To streamline your team's workflow in import/export operations, start by implementing a robust digital documentation system to manage shipping and customs paperwork efficiently. Utilize technology solutions such as customs clearance software and shipment tracking tools to enhance visibility and communication throughout the supply chain. Establish clear communication channels among team members and external stakeholders to minimize delays and ensure prompt decision-making. Lastly, regularly review and optimize processes based on performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and enhance overall operational efficiency.
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Minha contribuição ao assunto, consoante com minha vivência prática diante de inúmeras situações pelas quais passei em empresas de diversos setores destacaria: 1.Pessoas: Valorizar e investir nas pessoas de sua equipe, tanto interna como externa. Não há como obter bons resultados sem profissionais engajados e não apenas pela necessidade ou a satisfazer a demanda financeira do momento e sim, trabalhar-se com relacionamentos de longo prazo. Seja generoso $$$ e valorize o desempenho e a ética! 2.Processos: Apoiar-se no uso da tecnologia e sistemas para mitigar riscos e aumentar o desempenho. Recorra ao poder da combinação simplicidade e tecnologia na entrega de valor aos clientes internos e externos.
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Assess Current Workflow: Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Develop clear procedures for each stage. Technology Integration: Invest in automation tools for customs documentation and shipment tracking. Employee Training: Ensure the team is proficient in new tools and SOPs. Monitoring and Evaluation: Implement KPIs to measure efficiency and identify areas for improvement. Risk Management: Develop strategies to mitigate risks in international trade. Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and update processes. Customer Experience Enhancement: Provide real-time updates and implement customer feedback mechanisms. Strategic Partnerships: Cultivate strong relationships with suppliers
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Simplificar o fluxo de trabalho em Operações de Importação/Exportação pode trazer benefícios significativos em termos de eficiência e produtividade. Aqui estão algumas sugestões para simplificar esse processo: Automação de Documentação; Software de Gestão Integrada; Plataformas Eletrônicas para Desembaraço Aduaneiro; Monitoramento em Tempo Real; Padronização de Processos; Treinamento da Equipe; Parcerias com Agentes Aduaneiros e Logísticos; Análise de Dados; Comunicação Efetiva; Avaliação Contínua Realize avaliações regulares do processo de importação/exportação e solicite feedback da equipe. Isso permite ajustes contínuos e aprimoramento do fluxo de trabalho.
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É muito importante acompanhar a evolução das ferramentas disponíveis no mercado. Atualmente temos diversas opções de automação de processos com poder de reestruturar os fluxos de trabalho, e, na maioria dos casos, elas garantem maior segurança, agilidade e assertividade nas operações.
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Superar los procedimientos burocráticos a lo largo de la cadena de abastecimiento se vuelve un reto del día a día. Rodearte del equipo correcto para hacer que el flujo de trabajo no se convierta en una pesadilla, utilizando herramientas, automatizando procesos y delegando funciones que restan valor
The next step is to establish clear and consistent standard operating procedures (SOPs) for your import/export operations. SOPs are written documents that outline the specific tasks, methods, and guidelines for each process and activity. They help you ensure quality, accuracy, and compliance, as well as reduce variability and confusion among your team members. You can use templates, forms, or software to create and update your SOPs and make them accessible and easy to follow.
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The next step in enhancing import/export operations is to establish clear standard operating procedures (SOPs). These are detailed documents that specify the tasks, methods, and guidelines for each process. SOPs are crucial for ensuring quality, accuracy, and compliance. They also reduce variability and confusion among team members. Utilize templates, forms, or software to create and regularly update these SOPs, making sure they are easily accessible and understood by all team members. This standardization streamlines processes and improves overall efficiency.
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Establishing SOPs is essential for consistency and efficiency. These procedures should cover every aspect of the import/export process, including document handling, compliance checks, and communication protocols. SOPs ensure that all team members are on the same page, reducing mistakes and streamlining operations.
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I agree, SOP’s are vitally important and allow for the operator to have an understanding of a customers needs without having to ask the customer to repeat information you should already know. Essential at times of holiday / sickness.
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SOPs are essential for ensuring quality, accuracy, and compliance, as well as reducing variability and confusion among team members. In my experience, SOPs have helped me improve my productivity, quality, and customer satisfaction. I have found that using a tool like Process Street and EtQ to create and manage SOPs is very helpful and easy to use. It allows me to create, edit, and share SOPs with my team, as well as track their progress and performance.
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Wichtig ist, dass in den sog. SOPs die mitwirkenden Fachabteilungen und deren Aufgabe innerhalb des Prozesses klar benannt werden. Import- und Exportvorgänge betreffen nämlich nicht etwa nur Zoll-, oder Logistikabteilung, sondern mindestens auch den Einkauf, den Vertrieb und die Buchhaltung.
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Procedimento padrão deve existir e ser documentado em todos os departamentos de uma empresa que atua na importação e exportação. Embora a complexidade dessas áreas exija muito conhecimento para prever as diversas rotas e opções na tomada de decisão, a experiência contará muito e o documento poderá balizar as melhores escolhas de profissionais com pouca experiência. Fluxogramas, rotinas e manuais devem estar à disposição dos times a qualquer momento. Investir tempo na elaboração de tutoriais em vídeo, é um grande facilitador para os procedimentos operacionais padrão.
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Ao falarmos de processos Importação e Exportação, devemos preconizar que: 1 - São processos regidos por muitas "normativas" 2- Há a interação de muitas "partes interessadas" (clientes, armazéns, Órgãos Anuentes, Etc...) Diante desse cenário, para esses ou quaisquer processos, regras instituídas por PROCEDIMENTOS são cruciais para o bom andamento das demandas. Dito isso, entendo como boas práticas para procedimentos; 1- Conhecimento das normas pertinentes, tal como suas penalidades e PRAZOS! 2- Frisar que procedimentos devem ser para todos os envolvidos. Excesso de Excessão, causa Exposição! 3- Treinem suas equipes! O conhecimento deve ser disseminado e não guardado! Uma equipe / empresa não é constituída por uma só pessoa.
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Ter uma “receita” para executar a operação de forma padronizada garante que o processo tenha menos risco de parar no meio do caminho, reduz custos extras com possíveis erros na operação e ainda garante mais agilidade no processo, sendo possível realizar mais processos em menos tempo
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SOP's are definitely play an important role for an uninterrupted operations. SOP should be based on: 1. Productive, Quality and Smooth Operations. If operation stop your SOP fail 2. Can understand the need of Customer. We can not impose a SOP on our client if he is not happy with the operations. 3. Must be based on a Cost Effective work flow.
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SOPs can assist enormously with not only providing step by step instructions of each procedure but also providing uniformity of how all activities related to the process are carried out. For those areas where ISO regulations apply, I would strongly recommend that these are implemented into your SOP. It will also give you plus points during your annual audits 😁
Another way to streamline your workflow is to automate and integrate your systems and tools as much as possible. Automation can help you eliminate manual and repetitive tasks, such as data entry, invoicing, or tracking, and free up your time and resources for more strategic and value-added activities. Integration can help you connect and synchronize your different systems and tools, such as accounting, inventory, or shipping, and enable seamless data exchange and collaboration among your team members and stakeholders.
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Automation can help you save time and reduce errors in your import/export process. Consider investing in software that can help you automate tasks like documentation, tracking, and compliance checks
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Automação é otimização de processos pura! Importantíssima para eliminar tarefas respetivas ou retrabalhos que poderiam ser evitados! E uma vez implementada, faz sobrar tempo para o que realmente importa: Agregar valor de outras formas, principalmente com atendimento ao cliente com demandas mais complexas!
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Essa etapa já é uma parte obrigatória de toda equipe de alto desempenho. Com as ferramentas existentes atualmente e a tecnologia disponível, somente pode-se atender e superar as expectativas dos clientes se utilizarmos corretamente a integração de sistemas para trazer agilidade e transparência para a operação
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Basically an automated system refer to a real time tracking of a smooth operation. It help immediate identification of the problem occurring at any step.
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El registro adecuado de todas las fases permite al equipo hacer el seguimiento adecuado para conocer en qué punto interviene un miembro del equipo. En función del volumen de operaciones se puede optar por uno u otro sistema automatizado que permita generar avisos.
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Automation and integration of systems are key to enhancing efficiency. This could include software for tracking shipments, automating documentation processes, or integrating inventory management with shipping operations. Automation reduces manual tasks and errors, while integration ensures seamless information flow across different operational areas.
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Automatizar fluxos e sistemas no comércio exterior além de reduzir as possibilidades de erro, permitem que os dados coletados possam alimentar sistemas que permitirão ao cliente se auto-atender, resolvendo de forma rápida e eficaz suas dúvidas.
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Debido a los procesos que involucra las operaciones de importación y exportación, es muy importante utilizar las herramientas tecnológicas que existen y sistematizar los procesos establecidos en cada organización, esto no solo simplifica el trabajo sino permite controlar indicadores y saber cuando es necesario implementar cambios.
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The customized tools for import and export as per the requirements of the industry and customs can add more value to the international supply chain. The tools will definitely help in taking the decisions in 1) current and future course of business plans for cost optimisation, 2) Reduce the barriers in customs clearances, 3) Identify the risks and alert on time to mitigate the issues.
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Boost import/export efficiency by automating tasks like data entry and tracking. Integrate systems, such as accounting and inventory, for seamless collaboration among team members, optimizing workflow.
A key factor to streamline your workflow is to train and empower your team members. Training can help you equip your team with the necessary skills, knowledge, and best practices to perform their tasks efficiently and effectively. Empowering can help you delegate and distribute the workload among your team members, as well as encourage them to take ownership, initiative, and accountability for their actions. You can also foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement by providing feedback, recognition, and incentives.
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I think the well trained and knowledgeable employees can identify and mitigate risks associated with international trade, such as currency fluctuations, geopolitical issues, and changes in trade policies. Also, the empowered employees are more adaptable to changes in the global market, new technologies, and evolving trade practices. This adaptability is crucial in the dynamic field of international trade.
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The combination of a well trained employee , including relative empowerment from the leader of the team is unbeatable! Most people can learn or follow procedures , but experience, knowledge and empathy about your work cannot be replaced !
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An enviornment in which each team member feels they could ask questions and express their opinions/ideas is most important. Also creating a forum that everyone has a way to implement an idea and problem solve together.
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MAURICIO OCCELLI MOLINA
National Director of Luxury Properties en Keller Williams Realty, Inc.
(edited)If you train your human power they will find more value in the company, therefore also training is a great ingredient for increasing job retention. Empowering individuals and aligning their actions to the company goals will result in great achievements. Team players must acknowledge that whatever they do will impact the company’s performance either in negative or positive ways.
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Training is only possible in repeated tasks. If you try to train people who are new to the work and the task type is changing for example, we are having different kind of commodities products for import or export. Every time we need highly skilled person at least One to look after the whole process. There is a chance of Miss handling on the port either sides. Any miscommunication can lead to fatal results in terms of heavy costs of storage and or clearance in the wrong, HS code may lead to extra costs. Moreover, in case of products that are perishable There is extra care. seasonal items also cannot be delayed under any circumstances.
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Training and empowering your team members is a key factor to streamline your workflow and achieve better results. According to a study by Gallup, empowered employees are 67% more likely to be engaged, 28% more likely to stay with their company, and 21% more productive than their disempowered counterparts. One of the methods that I use to train and empower my team members is online courses. I use a platform like TalentLMS to create and deliver engaging and interactive courses that cover various topics related to our workflow, such as project management, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. This way, I empower my team to focus on more strategic work, such as networking, communicating, and innovating.
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I believe that by knowing one thing and knowing one's work one can easily avoid the difficulties and shortcomings in the team work. Whatever work we do, we cannot succeed if we do not understand it properly. We have to make our team aware of the market and trends from time to time and boost their morale by taking care of their basic needs and giving them a good environment. We should conduct training programs for the team from time to time. They should be provided with the equipment they need.
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Il n'y de richesse que l'homme et la formation donne une plus value à cette richesse. Faire comprendre à son équipe que accepter d'apprendre nous rend incontournable
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Treinar e capacitar a equipe que atua em comércio exterior é uma atividade constante. A legislação muda quase que diariamente, portanto, é necessário que as empresas possuam alguém que faça o trabalho de pesquisa nos principais meios (gov.br, Diário Oficial da União), interprete e atualize os times acerca das novidades. Isso vai garantir assertividade operacional.
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In my opinion and experience, the best way to provide feedback to the team is to organize meetings with the different departments that are included in the process. For example, each department presents the good experiences and the less fortunate ones or those that caused the most problems for the organization are discussed. Another example is that if we have different specialized import or export groups, they make presentations about their contracts and their challenges. Sharing is power.
The final step to streamline your workflow is to monitor and evaluate your results and performance. You can use metrics, indicators, or dashboards to measure and track your progress and outcomes, such as cycle time, error rate, or customer satisfaction. You can also use surveys, audits, or reviews to assess and improve your processes, systems, and standards. You can also use benchmarking, best practices, or innovation to identify and implement new opportunities for optimization and enhancement.
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Regular monitoring and evaluation of your workflow are crucial for continuous improvement. Implement key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure efficiency, accuracy, and customer satisfaction. Use this data to identify trends, anticipate issues, and make informed adjustments to your workflow.
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The final step to streamline your workflow is to monitor and evaluate your results and performance. Then, it will be help to mitigate leakings and improve work ability.
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The monitoring and the regulation of import / Export procedures is essential in our work. Each step and process can be accomplished at time.
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Use some tools of risk managment, and check just a few process some times a year, you will found New oportunities (not only problems) and also review according to the best practises of the market. If it' possible, ask to your team to prepare reports with the information that you need, and make then Develop this tools, you also will develop the team, and found vulnerabilities and grew all the process.
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The final step in streamlining workflow in import/export operations is to monitor and evaluate performance. Utilize metrics, indicators, or dashboards to measure progress and outcomes, focusing on aspects like cycle time, error rate, or customer satisfaction. Employ surveys, audits, or reviews to assess and refine processes, systems, and standards. Additionally, consider benchmarking against industry best practices or exploring innovative strategies to identify new opportunities for optimization and enhancement. Regular evaluation and adaptation are crucial for maintaining an efficient, responsive workflow.
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Buenas tardes. En los procesos logísticos es importante registrar a través de KPI adecuados los procesos de importación y exportación en cada una de sus fases. Debemos analizar y compartir con los miembros del equipo cada resultado de los indicadores y esto nos llevará a evitar cuellos de botella y anticiparnos a situaciones no deseadas. En estadística si no llevas indicadores no controlas.
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Un equipo con las competencias adecuadamente desarrolladas, un sentido de pertenencia tomado como propio y con una claridad de propósito, logra que las tareas se realicen muy adecuadamente y de manera eficiente, lográndose con ello incluso, poca supervisión de los procesos operativos. Llegar a este punto requiere una disposición, una inversión, una dedicación y una política de compromiso que debe de venir de la cúpula y que genere entusiasmo en toda la organización, algunas empresas con este esquema de trabajo, logran consolidarse con organizaciones ágiles y eficientes, logrando óptimos resultados
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To establish appropriate SOP is important but not sufficient without establishing TAT -Turn around time and Key Responsibility Area of each team members. In export -import business every process and that too in time is very important. Further for each process alternative team player should be decided to prevent any kind of delay.
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Always running on proces,for workflow,mean sustain the team till the end,monitoring,then real effect and results from the customer. Never less,exepcted to achieve news on system then improve that,so to avoid issue on real time.
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A declaração única de exportação ajudou muito na simplificação da exportação, porém, é necessária que a nota fiscal seja corretamente preenchida para evitar multas por erros.
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Stay abreast of industry developments and evolving best practices. Consider external factors such as regulatory changes, market trends, and technological advancements. Maintain open communication with your team to ensure they are engaged and to gather valuable feedback for ongoing process improvement.
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O correto entendimento de todas as atividades envolvidas, aliado a uma visão clara dos objetivos e resultados esperados para cara um dos envolvidos favorece o desenho de um fluxo de atividades objetivo, eficiente e dinâmico nas importacoes e exportações. Como resultado, é possível aumentar eficiência, agilidade, conformidade e segurança da informação, evitando sobreposição de funções, reduzindo atividades quantitativas, e dando ênfase à atividades qualitativas.
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Para importadores e exportadores do Brasil. Se mantenha constantemente atualizado sobre a legislação aduaneira. E outra coisa, serei muito sincero com vocês... Na minha opinião, a parte mais difícil de uma importação, são as questões tributárias que regem o ambito nacional, consequentemente, internacional, principalmente para Tradings Companies. Fiquem atentos quanto a diferenças de destinação de mercadoria, regimes contábeis, ICMS ST, importação interestadual, benefícios fiscais estaduais (TTD 113, 409, 410), PIS/COFINS monofásico, lessin... Entre várias outras questões que atingem as nossas importações devido a sermos um país de labirinto tributário e fiscal.
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Argemiro Severiano Silva
Diretor Financeiro | Gerente Financeiro | Gerente Administrativo Financeiro
Acredito que a avalição de desempenho periódica poderá ajudar na capacitação e correção de eventuais falhas técnicas e comportamentais. A inteligência emocional poderá ser uma excelente aliada nesse processo de aperfeiçoamento profissional.
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Sometimes there are spesific events in which someone has to take action urgently and decide on how to proceed without disrupting the usual workflow and to avoid delays. In order to ensure this, every team member or partner needs to be informed in advance with clear instructions and information.
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Plans for whole workflow and design according to the Operation and Objectives align with the Goal of the Team. Needed to make sure Gantt chart and follow up timelines with Discipline Dedication and assure the Delivery. Team Leaders has to do Monitoring, Mentoring and Motivating the each individual .
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Invest in technology, automation and AI, there are so many awesome new tools that will streamline your workflow, save on labor costs and provide real time data.
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Always remember your "5p's Proper Planing Prevents Poor Performance". Proper- Take in accurate information, measure twice and cut once. Planing- Be strategic make sure plan B, and C are warm and ready to take over. Prevention- Double check your plans to minimize risk. Poor- Avoid poor communications between departments. And make sure you ICT defence layers and running optimally. Performance- "Customer feedbacks" are the ultimate performance check. Don't forget you are not the only one in the industry. Your customer will compare your services with the best till you give them the best.
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Implementierung eines Risikomanagements hinsichtlich Sanktionsprüfung, Beurteilung von Dual-Use-Gütern (Exportkontrolle) etc. ist bei einem exportierendem Unternehmen unverzichtbar.
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