Improving productivity for systems integrators in a complex, always‑on world.
What if the ongoing chaos you experience every day isn’t a sign that you’re doing something wrong, but a subtle signal that something important needs your attention?
While many integration firm leaders think of chaos as workplace noise, it’s more like the natural result of operating in a complex ecosystem.
But it didn’t always used to be this way. Structure quietly slips away over time, as priorities change, fires need to be put out, and years of small compromises add up. What was once a well-oiled workflow can begin to unravel as days fill with juggling emails, client demands, texts, meetings, unchecked paperwork (and the list goes on).
This leaves many leaders to wonder: “How did I get here? And how do I get back to that focused state?”
The Illusion of Multitasking
Multitasking is sometimes considered a badge of honor. But it’s not something worth celebrating, as NSCA’s Business & Leadership Conference (BLC) attendees have heard time and time again.
When you switch back and forth between tasks (responding to a customer email, then checking your text messages, then reading through a document on your desk), you don’t split your attention evenly, and everything takes longer. Why? Because of the “switching cost” associated with changing focus.
That risk can translate to costly errors, overlooked details, and disappointing clients.
Focus Pays Dividends (Literally)
By introducing a simple new habit, you can reclaim hours of lost productivity and restore focus to your most important work. As Dave Crenshaw described a few years ago at BLC 2023, he watched a manufacturer formalize one-on-one client meetings (“scheduling” interruptions) instead of dealing with the constant ad-hoc questions that came up throughout the day. The result? A 20% leap in productivity. These meetings gave them a way to “batch” disruptions and make sure they could give their undivided attention to the things that mattered.
This is a tactic integrators could deploy to control the chaos. For example, it could mean formalizing biweekly touchpoints with recurring clients. By having those conversations scheduled, both sides know when they’ll have your undivided attention. When a question or interruption pops up, ask: “Can this wait until our scheduled meeting?” Watch how quickly you (and your clients) learn to hold non-urgent matters for later.
Breaks Are Necessary
While it’s normal to feel guilty for taking breaks, these pauses are necessary to improve productivity for systems integrators. Data reveals that microbreaks (taking just 90 seconds to move or breathe) can reboot your focus and productivity.
This is something else integrators can try: Integrate intentional pauses daily. You’ll find yourself sharper and more responsive when you return to your most valuable work.
Try short, intentional resets that protect your mental sharpness throughout the day. This could look like:
- Standing up to stretch after looking through a detailed drawing
- Walking outside for a moment after a tense call
- Turning away from your screen, closing your eyes, and focusing on breathing before your next meeting
Let Chaos Make You Sharper
The next time you feel pulled in every direction, don’t try to shut the chaos out. Instead, let it guide you toward creating better boundaries, smarter schedules, and a renewed sense of focus.
Small, deliberate changes can strengthen your team’s rhythm, improve the client experience, and carve out space for strategic thinking.
The chaos will never disappear, but it can serve as a reminder to keep focused on what matters most.
