How to Implement Level 7 Successfully

Level 7 will transform an ordinary business into a world class organization. The implementation of Level 7 is not a project; it is a way of life or a culture change for the organization. Once a company implements Level 7, it will always be a Level 7 business. In general, a company and its leadership should prepare for 18-24 months of focused and steady engagement in the implementation process.

Compare Level 7 Implementation to losing weight and getting in shape. In the beginning, it can be tough for people to lose weight. Their bodies and lifestyles are not accustomed to the new regime. The best fitness program not only focuses on losing weight but encourages people to make a lifestyle change. If the changes are maintained, people can stay fit and strong the rest of their lives.

The same is true about Level 7 Implementation. If the business is fat and out of shape, the process moves the company toward getting fit and lean. Level 7 establishes a new way of thinking and integrates more efficient operating procedures into the organization, in addition to improving the overall performance and condition of the business. This allows the organization to maintain a high level of production, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

In order for there to be a successful implementation of Level 7 and obtain the desired business transformation, there are important steps the business must be willing to take.

Keys to Successful Level 7 Implementation

• Full commitment to Level 7 Implementation by the leadership of the organization. This includes Level 7 Leader Certification. This is imperative, as a lack of commitment by the leadership will create the same lack of support within the organization.
• Engage in a comprehensive analysis of the current business condition. This includes, but is not limited to, surveying of customers and evaluating employee satisfaction.
• Establish how the leadership is going to measure the impact of Level 7 Implementation on the business and implement a tracking system that can be easily monitored.
• Engage key management personnel and design a Level 7 Implementation plan. Establish plan to develop Certified Level 7 Managers.
• Identify and designate an onsite Level 7 Implementation Coordinator who will also become a Certified Level 7 Implementation Coordinator.
• Establish implementation teams.
• Engage the entire company through strategic communications.
• Commit designated people within the organization to spend a specific amount of time and energy to support the implementation process, which would include documentation of systems and procedures.
• Participate in regular and timely implementation assessments and make adjustments as needed.
• Conduct Pre-Certification audits and make corrections as needed.
• Engage in continuous improvement.

Pitfalls to Effective Implementation

• Lack of CEO and leadership commitment.
• Failure to involve everyone in the process.
• Failure to consistently monitor progress and enforce deadlines.
• Failure to get input into documentation from the people involved in the process.
• Failure to set a reasonable time goal.
• Not actively using the system created.

How to Get Started

The first step is to determine why the implementation of Level 7 Principles is important to the organization and to the leadership.

Decide if the company is going to engage a Certified Level 7 Implementation Specialist or engage in the Independent Implementation Program (I2). It is highly recommended that a key person, ideally the owner or business leader, become a Certified Level 7 Leader before attempting the Independent Implementation Process.

Read more about some of the tools, products and services to support Level 7 implementation within your organization. Click here =>>