Organization + Systems

How to Create Systems that Work (and Aren’t Complex)

September 15, 2023

When we talk about creating systems for your business, you might immediately picture super complicated tools that have an overwhelming number of bells and whistles.

And sure, larger companies do have complicated systems because it’s necessary. As for the rest of us? They don’t need to be complex – especially as we’re just starting out.

So, the good news? You can create systems that are just as simple as they are effective. Wanna know how?

Check out our newest video below, where we show you how to create systems that work – and aren’t complex.

Want to get a head start on your systems? Here’s a breakdown of what that can look like for you!

1. Start simple

We cannot stress this enough: Don’t try to use all the features when you first start using a new tool. Simply add them as you become more used to things.

Think about the tasks you need the most help with. Is it emails? Task or project management? Onboarding and managing clients? This will tell you where to start!

2. Know your needs

What do you need to set yourself up for success? For example, do you have to have every single step of every single process written down, or does that stress you out? Are you a big picture person or a task-oriented person?

Some people need a project with steps listed out in the description or even just a short loom video. On the other hand, others need exact steps tasked out so they know what they're doing on any given day. This depends on the kind of work you do – and also how you function.

All this to say: Don’t feel like you have to set up your systems like someone else does. Because what works for them may not always work for you! Take note of what you need to succeed, and build your systems around that.

3. Evaluate what's currently on your plate

When you think of everything on your to-do list, how much of that time is actually moving your business forward? Or working towards your long-term goals?

This is where systems can become really overwhelming. Most business owners think they have to do and see every single task and project. But let’s be real: You’re not the only person who can do those tasks! So, it might be time to hire someone or set your systems up in a way that helps you – not adds more to your plate. That can look like:

Pro tip: Kristi here! Something that helps me delegate? I picture myself as CEO three years from now. Will I still be doing the same tasks? Or does it seem silly (and unnecessary) for the CEO of a company to be doing that? Simply put: If you can delegate a task in the future, you can delegate it now.

4. Evaluate the systems you're currently using

It’s something all business owners have experienced at some point: You sign up for a shiny new tool that other people in your industry recommend. You start the free trial, then immediately become overwhelmed. You don’t know how it works, you don’t like the features, and you eventually stop using it. Then, you’re back to square one.

Instead of settling for tools, find ones that actually support you! Yes, it may take some trial and error, but once you find a system that works for you, stick with it. It may be scary and uncomfortable at first, but trust us – once they’re working for you, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

BONUS: Our top recommendations for systems

For project management: ClickUp

At DaSilva Life, we love using ClickUp as a project management tool because there are so many ways to customize it. You can view tasks in lists, boards, dashboards, and so much more. You can also create a ton of different spaces for the different work-related projects you have — even personal ones, like fitness tracking and vacation planning.

For customer relationship management (CRM): HoneyBook

We also highly recommend HoneyBook for anyone who wants to connect with potential clients more easily. With a CRM like HoneyBook, you can automate the entire client onboarding process – everything from booking to email communication to documents to follow-ups – saving you so much time and energy. It’s awesome and so simple!

Ready to set up your own systems? Join Systems School!

We know first-hand how overwhelming systems can seem. But when you simplify everything, they become that much more manageable and transformative for your business.

So, when you’re ready to set up your systems quickly and easily, join Systems School! It’s where we have an entire library that includes full, in-depth courses to learn how to use ClickUp and HoneyBook.

When you enroll in a course, you’ll get access to:

  • 52 On-Demand Video Lessons with step-by-step instructions and first-person tutorials
  • Access to our Systems School Community on Facebook, where you can get weekly tech support from the DL Team
  • Plug & Play Templates ready to upload into your ClickUp or HoneyBook account
  • Live Office Hours once a month with the DL team
  • Lifetime Access to everything listed above (including future course updates!)

Have questions about Systems School, or wondering which course is right for you? Just reach out to us, and we’ll work together to find the right solution (and systems!) for your biz.

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