Optimisation: An Idea, Mistakes, and an Analyst

Over many years working at various companies, I've noticed that the first thing that comes to mind when people hear the word "optimisation" is cost reduction! The reaction of employees often resembles a vampire’s response to sunlight. I say my "stop phrase": "Hello, I'm an analyst. I specialise in optimising business processes," and I go from being a charming, promising specialist to being an enemy of the people.

What is optimisation really about?

It's not about downsizing, not about saving resources, and not about lowering salaries.

Optimisation is about the value of the product and the effective use of resources.

I propose that we discuss my experience and mistakes and consider options for preparing to start the optimisation process.