While it is not always true that multiple resources can complete a task more efficiently, it is often the case.  In simple terms, efficient means in a well-organized and competent way.

Efficient work is usually faster and of a higher quality.  For a number of people to work together toward a common goal, that is all are contributing to an outcome (product or service), alignment of approach is a critical underpinning.

Confusion Reigns

Say you are washing the dishes with a familly member.  There are a number of interelated tasks for your team to complete.  Things like putting leftover food away, scraping the plates before hand washing in the sink or putting in the dishwasher.

These tasks apply to the pots.  Condiments have to be stored and the table cloth shaken or replaced and washed.

The participants in the clean-up need to be aligned as to approach, i.e., who is doing what, how and when.  Without alignment confusion takes over and the end result is not arrived at efficiently.  It will be slow and messy, frustrating for the participants.

Conceptual Alignment

How to approach achieving your objectives, what you are trying to achieve and how you are going to get there is not only a key to being efficient but also drives everyones contentment.

If all are not on the same page, trying to read the book together is never going to work.  This does not mean everyone must like everyone else or even agree, but they must be able to both accept and align their behaviour to the common approach.

In essence all must either agree or be able to say I don’t agree this is best but I can support and comfortably live with this approach.