Economy of Effort: Optimising Committee Meetings for Grassroots Sports Clubs

In sports clubs, committee meetings are crucial for making decisions and driving the club forward. To make these meetings more efficient and productive, we can apply the ADF Military principle of Economy of Effort. This principle emphasises the judicious use of resources to achieve maximum effectiveness.

Understanding the Principle

Economy of Effort is about using resources efficiently to achieve the desired outcome. In a military context, it involves allocating the minimum necessary resources to secondary tasks so that the majority can be focused on the primary objective. For grassroots sports clubs, this means ensuring that time, energy, and resources are used wisely during meetings.

Applying the Principle to Committee Meetings

1. Prioritise Agenda Items: Focus on the most critical issues that need to be addressed. By prioritising these items, you ensure that the most important topics receive the attention they deserve.

2. Reports are written: Have all committee members submit their reports at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. Other committee members are to read the agenda and if there is a question on the information or disagreement with the recommendation, pause to discuss. Otherwise, accept and move on.

3. Streamline Discussions: Keep discussions concise and to the point. Avoid lengthy debates on less important issues. This helps in maintaining the meeting’s focus and prevents time wastage.

4. Delegate Tasks: Assign specific tasks to committee members based on their strengths and expertise. This not only makes the best use of available resources but also ensures that tasks are completed efficiently.

5. Use Technology: Leverage tools like project management software, shared documents, and virtual meeting platforms to streamline communication and collaboration. This can save time and reduce the need for lengthy in-person meetings.

6. Use Parkinson’s law: Parkinson’s law states that "work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion". Set yourself tight timeframes and stick to them to force a decision. An 80% solution delivered on time beats a 90% solution delivered late 100% of the time.

7. Set Clear Objectives: Define clear objectives for each meeting. This helps in keeping the meeting focused and ensures that all discussions are aligned with the club’s goals.

8. Review and Adjust: After each meeting, review the outcomes and identify areas for improvement. Adjust your approach as needed to ensure that future meetings are even more efficient.

Benefits of Economy of Effort in Meetings

• Increased Efficiency: By focusing on key issues and streamlining discussions, meetings become more efficient.

• Better Resource Allocation: Resources are used where they are most needed, leading to better outcomes.

• Improved Decision-Making: Clear objectives and focused discussions lead to more effective decision-making.

• Enhanced Productivity: Efficient meetings free up time and energy for other important tasks.

Conclusion

By adopting the principle of Economy of Effort, grassroots sports clubs can make their committee meetings more efficient and productive. This approach ensures that resources are used wisely, leading to better decision-making and improved outcomes for the club. When focusing on Economy however don’t negate Security, the topic of next week’s blog.

For more insights on implementing military principles in your club’s operations, reach out to Mission Command at info@missioncomd.com.au. Let’s work together to make your meetings more effective and impactful!

Prepare To Move. Move now

As we navigate through the challenges of running a sports club, your involvement is more crucial than ever. Whether you’re a parent, a local business owner, or a sports enthusiast, there are numerous ways to contribute to keeping children active in sports. Sponsor, volunteer or spread the word by sharing this post, you can help get every child involved in a sports team.