2 min 8 sec read

The Inefficiencies of “Asking Around: Why Modern Workplaces Need Structured Expertise Discovery

Time is incredibly valuable yet, in many organizations, a significant chunk of this precious resource is spent merely “asking around” – seeking expertise or introductions within vast networks and expansive company directories. But what happens when the once-bustling office corridors are now replaced by sparsely populated workspaces or virtual interfaces? Here’s why the traditional method of seeking expertise through word of mouth in an era of remote and hybrid work is not only inefficient but also detrimental to business productivity.

The Problems with “Asking Around”

1. Time Consuming and Inefficient: Seeking information or expertise by asking colleagues can be a drawn-out process. This approach often leads to playing ‘telephone’ where one person redirects you to another, and so on. 1 billion knowledge workers spend, on average 20% of the time looking for things, according to Mckinsey.
2. Lack of Comprehensive Insight: When relying on colleagues for information, you’re banking on their ability to recall and memory. They may overlook someone or be unaware of a recent up skilling, leading you to miss out on the best potential expertise.
3. Interrupted Workflows: Constantly reaching out and interrupting colleagues for expertise or referrals breaks their concentration and flow, reducing overall productivity.
4. Limited to Known Networks: Asking around confines you to the limits of your immediate network or those of your close colleagues. There could be a goldmine of expertise just a department away that remains untapped.
5. Not Adaptable to Remote Work: With the rise of hybrid and remote working models, the ability to casually ask a colleague in the next cubicle has diminished. This physical barrier amplifies the inefficiencies of seeking expertise through casual conversations.
   

Expertise Discovery

In a world where immediate access to the right information can drastically impact outcomes, tools like Louisa emerge as game-changers.

1. Automated Expertise Mapping: Instead of relying on fragmented human memories, Louisa AI auto-assembles an expertise graph, ensuring that skills and expertise within an organization are accurately captured and regularly updated.
2. Instant Access: Gone are the days of waiting for email responses or setting up meetings just to find the right person. With Louisa AI, you can instantly connect with the right expertise or get the introduction you need to reduce the time spent looking for expertise or relationships.
3. Cross-Departmental Visibility: Don’t be confined to your immediate network. Louisa AI provides a holistic view, ensuring you can tap into expertise from any corner of your organization.
4. Tailored for Today’s Work Model: Whether you’re working from the office, home, or a cafe worldwide, Louisa AI ensures seamless access to organizational knowledge.
5. Enhanced Data Privacy and Security: In an age where data is paramount, Louisa AI is tailored for regulated industries, ensuring compliance, security, and privacy needs are met.

In conclusion, while the traditional method of “asking around” has its charm, it’s an approach that needs to be enhanced to match the realities of modern workplaces. With tools like Louisa AI, businesses can leap into the future, ensuring they harness their internal expertise efficiently maintaining a competitive edge in an ever-evolving corporate landscape.