Creating Check Lists

I have the task of creating Check Lists for a few processes at my work.

I cannot complain--I even suggested making a few of them. But creating a check list is different from wanting a check list. The processes I am documenting are now a seamless (well, mostly seamless) work flow for me now. I now do, rather than think about each step...most of the time...

Which means that enumerating the steps is...tricky. I might do it one way one time, and a different way the next...and who's to say which order is better, so long as the results are the same?

I have decided to practice on other ordinary tasks...

Check List for starting the work day:

1. Get out of the car, lock the doors and put your key away.

2. Remember you left your lunch and return to the car after getting halfway to the building.

3. Repeat step 1.

4. Walk to the door on the West side of the building.

5. Use card to access the building.

6. Reflect on the fun of having your ID badge on an retract-able string...rather like a garrote...contemplate the meaning of this connection to the mafia in your work place...

7. Proceed down the hall to the third door on the right.

8. Use card to open door, and enter.

9. Go to desk and drop off bags.

10. Wake your computer up by moving the mouse.

11. Clock in at co-worker's computer.

12. Make your way to the galley, and proceed to try to find room in the common fridge for your lunch. Discover its impossible...start eating lunch...

13. Realize you left your badge at your desk...and are now locked out...start trying to attract the attention of coworkers without acting like a criminal trying to force his way into the more sensitive areas of the Credit Union...

14. Succeed in getting a co-worker's attention...get razzed for being locked out again...return to desk and thank the Lord its Friday...

Ah, work.