Kaitlyn Nakagoshi
Despite the noticeable upward trend in sustainable business practices, many companies are still hesitant to take this leap. Incorporating sustainability into a vision statement often demands sweeping changes to the financial, social and environmental objectives of an organization.
Companies such as Coca-Cola, Wal-Mart, and Johnson & Johnson are proving that implementing sustainable strategies is well worth the time and effort, however. Sustainability is not only good for consumers and the environment; it can be good for the bottom line as well. The process, not the final product, is the key to successful sustainable business practices; companies need to know that communication, collaboration and innovation are the building blocks to sustainable success.
Communication
Successful, sustainable organizations understand the importance of excellent communication across the board. By making it a priority to genuinely listen to customers, businesses can get to the heart of what their consumers want and will invest in.
Once you have a clear sense of what your consumers’ needs are, take a look at your competitors. How are they engaging their customers and are they doing a better job of it than you are? Keep the lines of communication as wide open as possible, from management to employees to suppliers to customers, and you’ll be well on your way to strong business relationships and a sustainable supply chain.
Collaboration
The old adage, “Two heads are better than one” is no cliché when it comes to sustainability.
By encouraging and rewarding partnerships and collaborative work, companies can utilize their resources more efficiently. When a company commits to sustainability, it may be tempted to make its changes by starting from scratch, typically a costly move that brings with it the risk of failure. Teamwork and seeking out partnerships allows creative minds to take existing practices and products and make them better. Historically, Americans have been viewed as risk takers and experimenters, and today more than ever, companies need to encourage this approach as they set their sights on a sustainable future.
Innovation
The biggest player in a sustainable future is innovation. When companies commit to generating and applying new ideas about sustainability, great things can happen.
The output of the workforce will grow, which can mean increased job opportunities, a higher standard of living, and ultimately a stronger economy. Innovation in regards to sustainability can take many forms, from discovering new ways to manufacture a product, deliver a service, or communicate with consumers.
Creative collaboration that keeps the customers’ wants and needs at the forefront is why companies such as Walt Disney, FedEx and Microsoft continue to experience rising success in an otherwise unpredictable economy.
The Sustainability Tripod
Communication, collaboration and innovation are fundamental building blocks to successful, sustainable business models. Consumers are eager to engage with companies that demonstrate a commitment to their financial, social and environmental sustainability.
Organizations who find this idea daunting or too costly should think again about why they are resisting something the rest of the world is ready to embrace. Sustainability does not have to be intimidating; small yet meaningful gestures will send a clear message to consumers that your organization is ready to join the world of sustainable business.
This article was submitted by the University of San Francisco’s higher education program, which offers an online master certificate in supply chain management, and sustainable supply chain management. For more information on the courses you can go here
