Highlights
- Business systemized and sold successfully
- Founders removed themselves from day-to-day operations
- Foundation set for new ventures like Lifestyle Tradie
Dr. Drip Plumbing’s Story
Dr. Drip Plumbing, founded by Andy and Angela Smith, started their plumbing business 21 years ago from their garage. Rapid growth saw them amass a team of 17, with the business turning over several million dollars at its peak. As a result of their success, the Smiths realized the need for structured systems to handle their expanding operations efficiently.
The Challenges
Rapid growth created chaos within Dr. Drip Plumbing. Despite achieving substantial turnover, the business lacked the necessary systems and structures. An incident where their office manager was uncontactable for 10 weeks highlighted the fragility of their operations. This experience underscored the importance of documenting and systemizing their business processes to ensure consistency and reliability.
Andy reflects, “We grew out of control, and most trade business owners grow their business on chaos. It was clear that to maintain consistency and manage the team effectively, we needed robust systems.”
The Solution
The turning point came when Andy and Angela systemized their business processes thoroughly. They embraced a systematic approach to document every role and procedure. With team members playing a crucial role in creating systems, turning the old approach on its head. This shift allowed Dr. Drip Plumbing to operate smoothly, even in the absence of key personnel.
Andy notes, “Systems were the key. We documented everything. Everyone followed the same procedures, which made all the difference.”
The Smiths also relied on SYSTEMology and systemHUB, which significantly boosted team efficiency and installed a systems-thinking mindset within the business. By ensuring every team member followed set procedures, they eliminated much of the chaos and inefficiency that previously plagued their operations.
Dr. Drip Plumbing’s efficient plumbing business model was instrumental in their success. The business was able to streamline operations, reduce overheads, and improve profitability through systematic documentation and adherence to procedures.
Andy elaborates, “We taught our plumbers how to use the job management system, approach customers, and follow up correctly. It wasn’t about teaching them to do their trade; it was about improving their efficiency and consistency.”
The culmination of these efforts ensured that Dr. Drip Plumbing operated efficiently without Andy and Angela’s direct involvement. This transformation allowed them to focus on Lifestyle Tradie, where they now teach other trade-based business owners the importance of systemization.
What’s Next?
Dr. Drip Plumbing set a remarkable example of how to sell a plumbing business successfully by implementing robust systems and processes. By ensuring that the business could run independently of its founders, Andy and Angela were able to step away and sell the business at a premium.
Are you creating key person dependency in your business? With the right systems and processes, your team can quickly upskill new and existing staff and still deliver at an exceptional standard. To find out how SYSTEMology can work for you, click here.
