Why "Muscle and Feel" Doesn't Work

Why Every Growing Business Needs a Business Operating System

When companies are small or just starting out, they often operate on "muscle and feel." This means that decisions are made quickly, processes are informal, and leaders rely almost solely on instinct and intuition to get things done. In the early stages, this approach can work because the organization is small enough for leaders to personally oversee and influence most aspects of the business.

But as companies grow, this model quickly becomes unsustainable. Here’s why a Business Operating System (B.O.S.) is critical for companies that want to scale effectively and thrive in the long term.

The Limits of "Muscle and Feel"

While the hustle and instinct of an owner or key leader are essential in the early days, they can become bottlenecks as the business grows. Leaders can only be in so many places at once, and as the organization becomes more complex, relying solely on intuition leads to:

• Inconsistent Results: Without standardized processes, outcomes can vary widely, which frustrates customers and employees.
• Overwhelmed Leadership: As the business grows, leaders who continue to operate on "muscle and feel" often find themselves buried in the day-to-day, unable to focus on strategic growth.
• Employee Confusion: Without clear systems, employees may not know who is responsible for what or how to prioritize their work.

The Power of Systematization

A Business Operating System provides the framework and processes that allow a company to operate smoothly, even as it scales. It includes documented workflows, clear accountability structures, and systems for tracking performance and decision-making. Here’s how it helps:

1. Consistency Across the Board
   A well-designed B.O.S. ensures that key processes—like sales, customer service, and hiring—are executed the same way every time. This consistency builds trust with customers, improves efficiency, and reduces errors.

2. Empowered Employees
   With systems in place, employees have the tools and clarity they need to succeed in their roles. They don’t have to constantly check in with leadership for guidance, which boosts morale and productivity.

3. Scalability
   When a company has repeatable systems, it can scale operations without reinventing the wheel. Whether it’s opening new locations, expanding into new markets, or growing a team, the systems ensure growth happens smoothly.

4. Frees Up Leadership
   A B.O.S. allows leaders to step out of the weeds and focus on big-picture strategy. Instead of micromanaging, they can concentrate on driving innovation, building relationships, and steering the company toward its vision.

When to Implement a Business Operating System

The right time to implement a B.O.S. is before growth becomes unmanageable. If you notice that:

• Customer complaints are increasing due to inconsistent service.
• Employees are unclear about their roles or responsibilities.
• Leadership is overwhelmed and spending too much time on tactical issues.
• Processes vary wildly depending on who is involved.

…it’s time to systematize.

Start Building Your B.O.S.

Implementing a Business Operating System doesn’t happen overnight, but the benefits are transformative. Begin by identifying the core processes that drive your business, documenting them, and assigning accountability. Then set goals, regular check-ins, and a way to measure progress.

Remember, the goal isn’t to stifle creativity or flexibility but to create a foundation that supports growth, innovation, and long-term success. By transitioning from "muscle and feel" to a robust, scalable B.O.S., you’re setting your company up for sustainable success.

Are you ready to take your business to the next level? Let’s talk about how a tailored Business Operating System can help you achieve your goals.

Ryan Giles