Return on time invested

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Return on Time Invested (ROTI) is a metric employed to assess the productivity and efficiency of time spent on a specific activity, project, or product. The concept is similar to return on investment (ROI), but instead of financial capital, ROTI measures the qualitative and quantitative outcomes derived from the time invested. The metric is relevant in contexts where time is a significant resource, including product management, personal productivity, business process optimization, and education or training evaluation. [1]

Contents

The Moneylender and his Wife by Quentin Matsys (1514) Massysm Quentin -- The Moneylender and his Wife -- 1514.jpg
The Moneylender and his Wife by Quentin Matsys (1514)

Calculation

While the specific calculation of ROTI can vary depending on the context, a general formula can be expressed as: ROTI = Total value or Output obtained / Total time invested.[ citation needed ]

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After a meeting

Some organizations use the ROTI method to evaluate meetings [2] .

Areas

Project management

ROTI is a metric used in product management to evaluate the efficiency of time allocation across various tasks and development phases. Product managers employ ROTI calculations to identify areas where time is being used effectively and those that may require optimization. This approach aids in resource allocation and productivity improvement efforts [3] .

Personal productivity

Individuals use ROTI to enhance personal productivity by evaluating how their time is spent on different activities. This helps in prioritizing tasks that offer higher returns on time invested and minimizing time spent on low-value activities. Media outlets like Inc. frequently offer tips on maximizing personal productivity, often referencing the principles behind ROTI. [4]

Business process optimization

Organizations leverage ROTI to improve overall efficiency by analyzing how employee time contributes to business goals. By understanding the ROTI of different processes and functions, organizations can streamline operations and allocate resources more effectively. Reports in Harvard Business Review have highlighted case studies where businesses improved their efficiency through better time management and ROTI assessments. [5] [6]

See also

Further reading

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References

  1. Maidment, Paul (29 February 2008). "The Price Of Time". Forbes. Retrieved 10 June 2024.
  2. "A strategy to deal with disruption". 22 October 2018. Retrieved 14 August 2024.
  3. Laker, Benjamin; Pereira, Vijay; MalikAshish Malik, Ashish; Soga, Lebene (9 March 2023). "Dear Manager, You're Holding Too Many Meetings". Forbes. Retrieved 14 August 2024.
  4. Eades, John (10 September 2018). "Why You Should Be More Worried About Your 'Return on Time' Instead of Investment". Inc. Retrieved 10 June 2024.
  5. Clark, Timothy (17 May 2023). "How to Read a Business Book". Harvard Business Review. Retrieved 10 June 2024.
  6. Torres, Vanessa (28 June 2021). "Getting Real Return on Legal Marketing and Client Development Efforts". Law.com. Retrieved 10 June 2024.