Establish a Rhythm Of Business model (ROB model)

The rhythm of business model is about visually depicting what will happen in the different months of the year. The ROB model will help you to manage teams better and to make sure that they reach their goals. This model is especially helpful when you are to manage a new team, department or company. As a new leader, it is important to understand the excisting rhythm of meetings, activities, assignments etc. in order to obtain efficiency and see the big picture as a leader. See an example of a rhythm of business model.

1. Identify processes, assignments and meetings

All companies have an annual strategic planning process including certain activities that need to happen at specific points in time. It’s all about finding the rythm and understanding the team’s processes and time schedules. You have to identify everything you need to know in order to ensure that you comply with the required activities and their deadlines (i.e., the annual budget creation or reporting). Thus, you need to find out what is required of your team, to whom and when it’s needed.

2. Create a timeline for your business model

Create a timeline of the activities, meetings and processes you just identified. Make sure to write down requirements, deadlines and all concerned parties.

3. Create a meeting structure

Now it’s time to include team meetings in your business plan. When is the perfect time for the different meetings? The meeting structure should be easy to decide when you look at the timeline. Which meetings needs to be before a certain project or deadline? When considering the timeline in your planning process, you are able to decide on the rhythm of meetings in a viable and efficient manner.

4. Visualize the operating rhythm

It’s important that the rhythm of business model is easy to read for everyone and provides a great overview of the annual operating rhythm. A circular calendar is perfect for this visualization, as you can easily view the whole year at a glance. Furthermore, you can embed it on your intranet to keep everyone updated on the meeting structure.

5. Get feedback on your business model

This step is important — remember to obtain feedback from your team! Remember that as you are a new leader, your team might know a bit more about the rhythm of business in the department or organization. They might come up with some good advice to make the plan even more efficient.

6. Implement the rhythm of business model

Make sure that your team knows what to expect and when to expect it in accordance with the operating rhythm. It’s important that everyone on the team are alligned with the new goals and deadlines, so they can prioritize the most important activities at the right time. When you and your team agree on it, share the rhythm of business model with other counterparts and shareholders in order to strengthen cooperation and relationships.