How to Eliminate Red Tape in an Organization

Too much red tape can hold back a team member, a project, even a whole organization. If you’re frustrated by the so-called red tape in your organization and are looking for ways to clear the path to efficient productivity, Jennifer Bridges, PMP, has got the answers.

Here’s a screenshot of the whiteboard for your reference.

In Review – How to Eliminate Red Tape in an Organization

Red tape as a term is often used to describe the slow and convoluted process of business administration. Jennifer noted that it comes from industries that are regulated, and for good reason, though sometimes the process is outdated. When people complain about red tape, they’re really saying that whatever regulations or processes required by a company are yielding negative results. Fortunately, there are ways to create a more efficient process by decreasing the number of sign-offs when possible by establishing metrics, thresholds and using tools.

Pros and Cons of Red Tape

Jennifer said there is good and bad red tape. Bad red tape is when there is too much bureaucratic process that bogs things down, while good red tape offers checks and balances, as well as a second set of eyes to make sure everything has been done properly.

Cons

• Slower decision making

• Hindrance to innovation

• Unable to pivot in projects

• Involves too many parties

The cons in red tape can lead to missed opportunities, a loss of team interest and overall frustration.