Instructions are essential for optimal process execution. Clear instructions help employees complete their tasks accurately and efficiently, leading to higher productivity and fewer errors. In this blog, we discuss the characteristics of effective instructions and how they contribute significantly to employee performance.
Instructions must be clear and concise. Use simple language without unnecessary jargon or complicated sentences. Employees must be able to understand what is expected of them at a glance. Short sentences and an active writing style help achieve this. For example, “Create a new account” instead of “A new account must be created.”
A step-by-step instruction provides a logical structure. Each step must be distinct and clear so employees can easily follow the process. This can be supported by visual aids such as images, diagrams, and videos to visually support complex actions. By numbering each step, the order becomes clear, and the process remains organized.
An instruction must be described at the appropriate level of detail to avoid misunderstandings. This means that each action must be clearly described. Instead of saying “Click the icon to start the meeting,” specify “Click the Teams icon in Outlook to start the meeting in Teams.”
Instructions must be easy for employees to find and accessible at all times. A central database, SaaS tool, or mobile app can help with this, so employees always have access to the latest version of the instructions. Accessible instructions ensure that employees can quickly find the information they need and get started right away.
An instruction must be easy to adapt in a rapidly changing world. This means that they need to be reviewed and updated regularly to remain effective. By scheduling periodic reviews and incorporating employee feedback, instructions are continuously improved.
Various (SaaS) tools are available to help organizations create, maintain, and share instructions. Self Guide is the #1 tool for software instructions. Organizations from branches like the government, healthcare and services make full use of the tool's broad applicability. The added value they experience is visible in, among other things, higher self-reliance of employees, higher user adoption of (new) software applications) and accelerated onboarding from employees.
They experience this value through unique advantages such as:
