Paperless - really? Can We Create Lasting Change?
Posted by Michael Gardner on Tue, Nov 30, 2010 @ 06:22 PM
If you've been following me on Twitter you probably saw me post this video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osUwukXSd0k) that is a comedic look at the science of influencing people. (watch it, you WILL laugh I guarantee it) How is this related to going paperless or to contract management software? If you want to create lasting change I think the lessons are essential.
The core message is that we require at least 4 motivators for us to change behaviour, and this is where I'd like to begin our exploration together of creating lasting change.
You would be hard pressed to find a person who doesn't want to at least protect the environment. Maybe because they care about the world they live in, or maybe because they want a better world for their children, but they still want change. Yet they don't change their behaviours to match their desires. The funny video I posted goes into some of the reasons why.
I believe that if you want to create lasting change the motivations can be pretty simple. Make it easier. Make it better. Make it cheaper. Sure there are lots examples of folks paying a premium for something that's better for the environment, or using a sub-standard quality product because its kinder for the planet, but will these changes be lasting? I doubt it, and so should you.
So although I applaud all of you that have encouraged "leave your car at home day" and for diligently carrying your own mug into Starbucks, and all of the other spur of the moment environmental initiatives, I also want you stop for a minute and consider something. How much effort did that small change take, and how much bigger of an impact could you have made if you changed just one thing, that everyone in your office does every day. Look at your workflow automation, your contract management process, or just look at your paper. Make it easier, make it better, make it cheaper and you'll make it last.