Having a fractional COO can be a great way for businesses to save money while still getting the experience and expertise of a full-time operations manager. Fractional COOs are often found in small companies that don't need a full-time operations manager or in larger companies that are just starting out. This helps keep costs down and ensures prudent budget allocation, while still attracting the most talented and qualified leaders. However, there are some drawbacks to using a fractional COO. A traditional COO can dedicate all of their time and resources to a single company, while a fractional COO dedicates only a fraction of their attention.
This means that they may not always be available or thinking about solutions to various problems or challenges. Additionally, fractional operations managers may not be able to provide the depth of care needed to address current issues. The job of a fractional operations manager is essentially the same as that of a normal operations manager, only on a fractional basis. They are experienced resources who have addressed complex issues and who will offer leadership and results. The decision to hire a fractional COO or a consultant will depend mainly on the circumstances in which the company is located. When you hire a fractional COO (F-COO), your company gets the vision and experience of a senior operations executive without having to assume the cost of full time.
This is an incredibly powerful and affordable way to achieve organizational objectives, increase strategic advantages, and grow your business. A fractional COO is used less than full time and is focused on operations. They accurately record how much time they spend, so you know exactly what you're getting for your money. A team of consultants may be priced similarly to an operations manager, but could offer a more effective and personalized solution to your company's problems. In general, a fractional COO would work for a company that isn't yet big enough to pay the salary of a full-fledged COO or that doesn't need one. There are several different reasons why companies may find themselves in this situation, but it's important to remember that there are both benefits and drawbacks to using a fractional COO. The advantages of using a fractional COO solution include cost savings, access to experienced professionals, and flexibility.
Companies can save money by hiring someone on an as-needed basis rather than paying for full-time staff. Additionally, they can access experienced professionals who have already solved complex problems in other organizations. Finally, they can adjust their staffing needs as their business grows or changes. On the other hand, there are some potential drawbacks to using a fractional COO solution. As mentioned earlier, they may not always be available or thinking about solutions to various problems or challenges.
Additionally, they may not be able to provide the depth of care needed to address current issues. Finally, it can be difficult for companies to find the right person for the job since they are only hiring someone on an as-needed basis. Overall, using a fractional COO solution can be beneficial for businesses that don't need or can't afford full-time staff. It allows them to access experienced professionals without having to pay for full-time staff and provides them with flexibility when it comes to staffing needs. However, it's important for businesses to consider both the advantages and disadvantages before making their decision.
