An operating model describes how people, process, technology, decision rights and controls work together to produce consistent outcomes.
The useful starting point is ownership: who is accountable, who performs the work, which systems are involved, where handoffs occur and how exceptions are escalated.
Strong operating models are understandable by new employees and measurable by managers.
What to remember
- Clarify ownership before escalating.
- Document assumptions and dependencies.
- Use approved internal procedures for regulated or high-risk decisions.