Lack of understanding of efficiency.

This morning LA watched David Cameron on the Marr show. LA was incensed by Marrs lack of understanding of "Efficiency", LA was also a little disappointed DC did not seize on this. However, it is not that surprising, the majority of the Media have never worked in the real world,the same goes for quite a few politicians too. Their understanding of "efficiency" is cuts. This is so far from the truth. The Sir Humphries will also peddle this line as they are so afraid of change (why rock a boat that has such a healthy pension as cargo).
Efficiency isn't about cuts it is about quality. If you deliver right first time, the savings are immense. The biggest waste in the public sector is error, rework and failure. When figures of saving 1% are bandied about LA scoffs. In the private sector such a low target would be seen as playing at it. LA works alongside organisations that regularly find 20 and 30% efficiencies, enhance the skills and pay of the workforce, reduce the carbon footprint and deliver a better product or service to the customer. This is not some panacea, this is reality.

The only reason we never see real efficiency in the public sector is because of the unions, the media and a lack of guts and vision from the political leadership. Perhaps David Cameron will show that when in power, the economic collapse of the nation will certainly present a burning platform to focus minds and generate delivery.

The biggest difficulty will be hearts and minds, The Guardian will call any reduction in expenditure a cut, even if the results are better than previously. Polly Toynbees' idea of efficiency is bulk buying her wine, the rest of them think its using a slow cooker to do the lentils. This is the battle ground, it will be a hard battle, but it can be won and it is worth fighting.

LA