During the past four weeks we have talked about defining a better way to do things. Everything that works well is the result of a good plan. The more time you spend thinking about what you're going to accomplish, the better things are going to turn out.
My plan involves following a roadmap we call the 5 P's (People, Places, Purse, Processes and Products). It's a framework to help you consider the important parts of everything you do. So naturally I want to share it with everyone at Aberdeen Proving Ground!
Let's take a step back and look at what we've already talked about. We started with people. This is the first consideration of any leader in any organization. People first; mission always. Then we have places. We set the stage by shaping the conditions for our success. We do this by building the facilities we need to accomplish our mission. The purse is important because it allows us to take care of our people, build our places and then put in motion the rest of the plan. Last week, we talked about processes and the need to always seek improvement and efficiencies. The final piece of the puzzle is the output. What are our products'
At the Research, Development and Engineering Command we define products as delivering timely, innovative, integrated solutions to modernize and sustain a dominant Army.
Of course the products of your organization may vary. You may provide first-class medical services if you're with Kirk Health Clinic. Or, you may deliver much needed test results on an advanced piece of equipment if you're with the Army Test and Evaluation Command.
Regardless of your role here at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Soldier, civilian employee or contractor, there will always be a result as evidence of your efforts. If there is none, you may want to refocus your efforts.
This is where we have to look at our common goal. We support the Warfighter. We all share a desire to make our Soldiers stronger, less burdened, safer, more effective and efficient. With our eye on this target it begins to shape how we approach every mission, large or small.
I suggest if we focus on the sacrifices our men and women in uniform are making every night and day, it would bring a new perspective to what you bring to the equation.
Simply put, we are defined by what we accomplish. Whether it is a service provided, or a physical object we had a part in producing. It is a measure of success.
By combining our efforts toward a common goal, the amount of that success grows. Together, we make a bigger impact. We deliver a product that contributes to the overall success of the Army.
Next week we're going to talk about the glue that keeps the 5 P's together: Partnership. Army Strong!
Related Links:
APG Commander's Corner: People
APG Commander's Corner: Places
Social Sharing