The challenge of managing operations while striving for sustainability and efficiency is real. There is always the pressure to seize the market quickly, scale operations, and drive revenue. Although scaling without compromising sustainability is a tough balance, it is one that I believe can be approached strategically. Quite often there is a natural pull to run after any and every opportunity leading to losing focus around target client base, product and market. In my view, here are some key strategies for scaling startups.
Focus on the core
Startups would do well to build capabilities that support and onboard customers while delivering on commitments. Processes that are not central to their mission should either be streamlined or integrated with existing systems. When building a start-up, it is important to refine core processes before expanding to meet new requirements. While it may be tempting to chase emerging needs, staying centred on the essentials builds long-term stability.
Leverage scalable technologies in a startup
Scalable technologies are critical to growth. Starting with a simple proposition and expanding into adjacent capabilities requires adaptable infrastructure such as cloud computing and microservices. Furthermore, automation is crucial to optimising resource allocation and improving operational efficiency. Quality testing, customer support, and repetitive tasks like pipeline metrics generation—automation ensures that essential operations stay lean.
Outsource non-core functions
Keeping operations lean with costs and revenue aligned ensures agility and sustainability at scale. An important strategy, particularly in resource-constrained startups, is to hire out non-core functions. Tasks such as IT management, human resource, accounting, or even parts of marketing can be effectively managed externally, freeing up the team to focus on strategic priorities.
Operational foundation for resilience
In contrast to large organisations that have structures and processes in place, startups need help channelling their ideas into a focused operational model. Well-defined processes for customer onboarding, sales pipeline management, and other critical tasks are non-negotiable. Regular monitoring also helps identify what is working and what needs improvement. A balance between clear processes and the flexibility to adapt is key.
A data-centric approach is instrumental to balance. I have seen that it helps make informed and impactful decisions. When emotional attachment clouds judgment in startups, stepping back to analyse data can bring in much-needed objectivity. By setting measurable key performance indicators (KPIs), it is easy to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and resource gaps.
The takeaways
Scaling up is not just about systems—it is about people. And leadership plays a pivotal role in the journey. One of the biggest lessons I have learned is the importance of maintaining agility and openness to feedback. However, feedback can sometimes be a sensitive area. If not approached constructively, valuable insights risk being missed. Being open-minded, receptive, and adaptive makes a big difference. When I reflect on scaling successfully, three priorities come to mind:
- Map processes to ensure clarity and alignment.
- Invest in scalable technologies that grow with the business.
- Conduct resource optimisation audits to maintain sustainability.
I believe we can scale operations efficiently without compromising on sustainability if we stay agile while leaning into our core strengths and building the right leadership and team
Nadeem Shamim has 35 years of experience in treasury, cash management, trade finance, and fintech, focusing on working capital management, product management, and systems. Having held leadership roles at leading financial services companies and multinational banks, he specializes in treasury processes, working capital management, and emerging technologies including AI/ML and blockchain. Nadeem is the Head of Global Operations at TASConnect.
