Recently I was asked to better explain my position on the growing need for organizations and businesses to have an “Interchangeable Parts” staffing arrangement versus a group of specialists.  What do I mean… specifically?  Today because of: 1. the ever-growing speed of change, 2. the increasing application of technology in the workplace, 3. the need for quickened customer services/products and 4. the negativity that results from a “you have to come back next week because the person that works in that area is absent” request for help response… I believe having an “Interchangeable Parts” staff is critical and HIGH VALUE!

Additionally, my rationale for building an “Interchangeable Parts” staff structure requires everyone involved to look at this option from a personal perspective. First from an employer point-of-view, it totally eases concerns about who may miss work on a specific day… because EVERYONE can cover for them.  Next when staff training is being organized, EVERYONE is operationally trained in a comprehensive manner, so continuous improvement becomes everybody’s job and EVERYONE strives to achieve common goals.

Second from an employee point-of-view if you are trained in multiple customer service/product development areas… your value as a worker goes continually up.  Additionally, should you happen to be laid-off… for whatever reason… your list of skills and experiences on your resume will reflect greater diversity, adaptability, and mutual responsibility.

Bottomline: Yes, I understand that there are and will always be work areas that require high levels of specialization.  However, if you follow even a minimum “Interchangeable Parts” staff strategy, EVERYONE will better understand the various components of making your organization/business successful.  Also, I need to stress that developing an effective “Interchangeable Parts” mode of operation demands a two-way-street of commitment and responsibility from the employer and employee…. everyday… EVERYDAY!

Making EVERYONE more knowledgeable via a comprehensive “Interchangeable Parts” initiative, will always make for a smarter organization/company overall.