Curiosity Toolkit: Step-by-Step

What is it?

Step-by-Step breaks a process into its smallest pieces, then invites you to challenge each one. By asking, “What if we changed, removed, or reversed this step?”, you can spot hidden friction and uncover simple, powerful improvements.

Why it matters

Processes build up over time - steps get added, rarely removed. Small, unnoticed stages can slow things down or make them clumsy. Step-by-Step helps you see the detail, test tweaks, and create a smoother flow without a full-scale overhaul.

When to use it

• When a process has “always been done this way”

• To refine onboarding or handover processes

• To cut down routine admin or approvals

  
  

How to do it

1. Choose a process. Pick one that frustrates people or feels slow.

2. Map every step. From the starting trigger to the finished outcome. Keep each step short (a verb and a noun).

3. Spot friction points. Look for waits, handovers, rework, or unclear ownership.

4. Challenge each step. Ask:

   • Can we change it?

   • Can we remove it?

   • Can we reduce, reorder, or automate it?

5. Select two quick wins. Focus on low-risk changes you can trial this week.

6. Test and measure. Track a simple metric: time saved, error rate, or satisfaction.

7. Keep what works, drop what doesn’t, and share the learning.

   
   

Quick tip

Go smaller than you think. Ten steps often become twenty when you get specific. The detail is where the breakthroughs hide.