Adherence to Standards Standard

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Steps

1. Standard Description

   Standards exist to ensure that we work toward consistent results using known and

   tested methods. When we follow a process and adhere to its Standards, we create

   a stable benchmark from which improvement is possible. If we do not adhere to

   Standards, our ability to improve performance is hindered because we cannot

   determine what changed or how the change affected the outcome.

   To improve our processes over time, we must first know what the process is and

   follow it reliably. Improvement is only possible when the underlying process is

   stable. When Standards are ignored, the learning mindset of the Farm is

   diminished, and we lose the ability to build upon past work in a predictable and

   rational way.

   Suggestions for modifying Standards are encouraged—indeed, required—whenever

   repeated problems occur. If a Standard has been followed correctly and issues

   persist, we are in a much stronger position to identify what specifically needs

   to change in order to improve the situation. In contrast, inconsistent or random

   deviations from Standards make rational analysis far more difficult.

   Farming involves many uncontrollable variables, including natural factors (such

   as weather) and humanmade factors (such as market prices). Because so many

   conditions lie outside our control, it becomes even more important to

   standardise the limited areas in which we *do* have control.

   Moreover, the timeframes over which Farms work tend to be across months,

   through seasons, and improvements are years in the making. This means that

   outcomes are often the result of actions initiated long ago. If we are able to

   identify which processes were followed, and to what Standard, then understanding

   what to improve becomes a rational and evidence-based endeavour. Working with

   nature is then an opportunity for gradual, continuous improvement. No less a

   struggle, to be sure, but an exciting one rather than an exhausting one.

   Farm work often involves the repetition of a process hundreds of times. Any

   uncertainty, decision-making or hesitancy results in lost seconds, which

   multiply into minutes and can add hours of wasted time. Moreover, constantly

   making decisions is energy consuming and often stressful. It is in exactly these

   situations that following a known process to a defined Standard removes the

   burden and allows hesitation-free flow to carry a repetitious task to

   completion. It creates the time, space, and energy needed to improve the

   process itself and lift the Standard over time.

2. Measurement Method

   Review performance issues or process failures and determine whether the relevant

   Standards were followed. Conduct periodic audits of workflow steps to ensure

   consistent adherence.

3. Applies To
   • All operational Systems
   • All behaviour-based Standards
   • All staff
4. Review and Maintenance

   Review annually or sooner when repeated deviations or recurring problems are

   identified. Update this Standard as our processes mature and as new insights

   arise.

   behaviour/adherence_to_standards_standard.txt 2025-11-27 phil

   adherence_to_standards_standard.txt 2025-11-27 01:43 phil 75831a0d00199983f04aa214765d52d5