Way of Improving Business Processes

A Methuen, Massachusetts, professional, Benjy Orbach has a leadership background spanning operations management, sales, and marketing. Benjy Orbach’s expertise includes organizational strategies for improving efficiencies and decreasing operational costs.

One area of emphasis, particularly for smaller companies without large-scale solutions in place, should be on automation through the use of business process management software. Keep in mind that flow charts, Google Docs, and MS Word are tools for organizing data, rather than automation.

For automating strategy, look toward specialized platforms, such as QuickBooks for accounting and other platforms that automate human resources, workflow, customer support, and payroll. These are designed to amplify what human workers accomplish and reduce errors through populating data in ways that integrate with complex processes and decision points. In addition, such systems can bridge reporting gaps between departments and help eliminate the silo mentality that often arises when teams act independently of one another.

Business process automation, while beneficial, requires careful planning, as the division between automated functions and those managed by internal staff must be delineated in ways that make strategic sense. Consider bringing outside consultants on board to assess organizational needs and dynamics before implementing a change.

Ascending Quandary Peak in Colorado Rockies

Benjy Orbach is an entrepreneur in Methuen, Massachusetts who has overseen diverse sales, marketing, and operations management activities. An avid skier, Benjy Orbach also enjoys hiking and has explored mountains in the Colorado Rockies.

One of the classic routes in the Rockies is Quandary Peak, which is the most accessible of the “14ers” that rise more than 14,000 feet in elevation. Twenty minutes from Breckenridge, the 6.75-mile trek starts just to the north of Hoosier Pass and includes a significant climb, from 10,850 feet to 14,265 feet. Despite the elevation changes being within short stretches, there is little exposure to drop-offs along the course.

However, the trail gains a daunting 1,100 feet over the last mile to the summit, which makes the hike strenuous and recommended only for those who are fit. The peak also has the highest number of accidents for any peak of its height, which reflects the popularity and year-round accessibility of the route.

With the Quandary Peak ascent above the tree line, hikers often encounter marmots and hardy mountain goats. With lightning risk in summer months, hikers are advised to climb before midday to avoid the frequent afternoon thunderstorms.