It's common to talk about business with metaphors, and one of the most common compares a high-functioning business to a "well-oiled machine."  It highlights the idea of different parts and pieces fitting together to create a moving whole that does something - more often than not, moving forward.  Unfortunately, in their quest to build that well-oiled machine, most leaders ignore the most important piece of the puzzle. Let's get very specific about our well-oiled machine. Let's say it's a sports car, maybe a Ferrari. It has a top-of-the-line engine, race-quality tires, and steering and controls that respond to the lightest touch. Taken … [Read more...]