Purpose and priority are paramount in measuring productivity in remote developers. A strategic game plan that advances the company towards its goals requires guiding your developers towards a clear objective. Like any plan of attack, it demands that the higher-ups tactically approach the smaller targets, understand the terrain, preempt the difficulties, and maintain morale.
Purpose is the compass that guides the whole operation. In other words, what is the end result look like? Productivity is then a product of a steady advancement towards that expressed purpose.
A remote developer is not privy to the everyday exchanges of company happenings. They don’t see the small victories that steer the operation onward. Maintain communication and having the end goals in sight is key to cohesive advancement. Begin by understanding the larger mission driving your forward:
The purpose is the driving force, but in order to work towards it there needs to be organization of tasks in what the Harvard Business Review calls a hierarchy of purpose. Project managers and company heads should identify what tasks are needed first. Don’t waste manpower fighting for something that is not strategically important. Keep in mind:
In the 21st century, the word “notification” has acquired an entirely new meaning. We all get them. All the time. On any given day, a remote worker might be dealing with an incoming bombardment of notifications in the form of new information, tasks, supplemental data, emails, requests and more. How do you keep them moving swiftly towards what is most important without getting bogged down or distracted?
It’s not the speed, it’s the direction. Motion is often confused for progress. Just because you’re moving doesn’t mean you’re traveling in the right direction. Purpose and prioritization are your compass with which to navigate difficult projects. If there is a need to correct course upon analyzing the current path, don’t be afraid to do so quickly and swiftly. In the end, you pave the path. Part of measuring productivity in remote developers comes with prioritizing and defining purpose.
Finally, make sure you always demand that these are respected, followed and implemented, as they have the power to define the results and priorities of your company’s future.
In what other ways does priority play a role in your company’s advancement? Leave us a comment below.
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