Should a leader focus more time, effort and energy on Inputs or Outputs?  The human tendency is to pay special attention to desired results (Outputs), although it is the proper stream of activities and utilization of resources (Inputs) that makes them possible.

A few examples will illustrate the relationship:

Revenue Growth depends upon client loyalty and referenceable services or products. Engaged Client Relationship Managers build those relationships and professional Production Managers deliver on what’s been promised; they don’t seek ways to cut corners..Required Inputs include recruitment, ongoing training and development, and resource optimization.Margin Improvement depends upon safe, effective and efficient production practices, not cost-cutting on spreadsheets.Required Inputs include work planning, process mapping and production programs that yield continuous improvement, coupled with accurate and timely real-time information.Industry Leadership depends upon identifying, prioritizing and focusing on the strategic actions that will create differential value over time, not obsessing over unexpected variances in one quarter.Required inputs include a clear and aligned vision for the business and a disciplined strategy to get there.

Long term success requires long-term thinking turned into to real-time actions and adjustments.  In the business world, as in the natural world, Inputs determine Outputs. To be leadership worthy is choosing to maximize the moment by investing in the inputs that will generate tomorrow’s success.

Tempus Maximize!