One of the best methods I have found to keep productivity at peak levels at my company is thru the use flowcharts. what is a flow chart you ask? It is basicly a business process document that I use to show all involved what their role is in the process. Once you have a completed flowchart you can determine whether errors and inefficiencies are inherent in the process or whether the errors are a result of employees not following the process as charted. Ask yourself: Can the same process be completed using fewer steps? Are there unnecessary delays? Where do most errors or defects occur. When we can sit down and study it we know what, if anything, needs to change.