Go DOGE On Your Business

Entrepreneurialism

Apr 24

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has been busy since its inception in January 2025.

No federal budget line has been left unanalyzed, and no department is safe.

Love it or hate it, DOGE is evaluating the efficacy of all processes and expenditures of the United States government — and I think that’s exactly what your business needs as well.

Lean Six Sigma: The big business equivalent of DOGE

Many big businesses follow Lean Six Sigma principles based on the “Make every process better, faster, and more productive” philosophy.

While Lean Six Sigma emphasizes efficiency, many big businesses make decisions based on cost in the name of being “lean,” but the bottom line was never the emphasis of this strategy.

This is where small businesses shine; we value our product and are more likely to pay a higher amount for cost of goods sold (COGS) to ensure we’re putting out an offer that’s sustainable, supports other small businesses, and above all, delights our clients and customers.

This is what Lean Six Sigma is all about: The intersection between efficiency (both time and money) and quality.

Small businesses are more likely to take the basic principles of Lean Six Sigma and follow them authentically.

A formal Lean Six Sigma certification covers eliminating waste and improving processes. While you can become a Black Belt in the topic, it’s not necessary in the small business realm (though it can make a difference depending on your business type).

How to go DOGE on Your Business

Big businesses have multiple departments and many employees, allowing them the resources to scrutinize their financials and processes.

As for solopreneurs or micro-businesses with a handful of employees, the owner’s sole responsibility of running the business can distract from ensuring that the processes they have in place are effective.

This is why it’s essential to audit your business on a regular basis, ideally once a year. Take inspiration from Lean Six Sigma, channel the Department of Government Efficiency, and ask these questions:

Income: What are your top income streams? How can you reduce the time it takes to deliver your best-selling offers? Should you cut any under performing offers?
Marketing: What’s actually working? Determine how new customers are finding you and what brings existing customers back. Focus on these efforts.
Sub Contractors: Is there anything you’re hiring out that would be more efficient to do in-house?
Employees: Is everyone performing to expectations? Could your business still thrive with fewer employees or do you need to hire more? Do these needs shift seasonally?
Expenses: Make a list of the software and subscriptions your business is paying for. Are you using them? Is there any overlap between software that would allow you to reduce what you use? Is there a cheaper alternative for your materials and supplies that won’t sacrifice quality, or could you buy in bulk to reduce costs?

While big businesses make decisions on cost, small businesses tend to make decisions on quality — both quality of their offers and quality of life for their employees.

Always keep quality in mind when auditing your business.

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