© E.M.M.A. INTERNATIONAL CONSULTING GROUP, INC. 1

Tips, Tricks, & Tools for Enhancing Attention to Detail

E.M.M.A. INTERNATIONAL CONSULTING GROUP

JULY 2015

http://www.emmainternational.com/

© E.M.M.A. INTERNATIONAL CONSULTING GROUP, INC. 2

Importance of Attention to Detail• Attention to detail can mean the difference between receiving a Form 483 or

No Action Indicated (NAI) after an FDA inspection

• In 2014, top causes for Form 483 were inadequate CAPAs and poor documentation

• Manufacturers can save time and money by improving attention to detail in areas of• Accurate data collection and reporting• Compliance with internal and external protocols• Establishing and maintaining procedures for each quality system subsystem

1. Drug and Device Makers Cited in 483s for CAPAs, Poor Documentation in 2014. FDA News. 2015. Available from: http://www.fdanews.com/ext/resources/files/whitepapers/2015/Whitepaper_Drug-and-Device-Makers-Cited-in-483s-for-CAPAs-Poor-Documentation-in-2014.pdf

© E.M.M.A. INTERNATIONAL CONSULTING GROUP, INC. 3

Its Starts With You• Companies can work to teach attention to detail with strategies such as:• Employee training• Including checklists and flow charts in procedures• Mistake proofing

However, you can start enhancing your attention to detail skills NOW with a few simple techniques

© E.M.M.A. INTERNATIONAL CONSULTING GROUP, INC. 4

Organizing & Planning• Create detailed work plan/checklist• List tasks you need to accomplish today, this week, this month

• Daily• Prioritize your tasks for the day• Give a timeframe for completing each task• Check off tasks as you complete them, • Leftover, uncompleted tasks will go on your list for tomorrow• Life happens… Don’t worry if you deviate from your plan, stay flexible, your daily

checklist serves as guide to help you visualize what you need to accomplish to help you stay on track

© E.M.M.A. INTERNATIONAL CONSULTING GROUP, INC. 5

Reduce Mistakes• Limit distractions• Close your office door• Use noise canceling headphone to work in silence or play music• Forward your phone to voicemail• Set specific office hours when you’re available for unscheduled visitors

• Review documents thoroughly for proof-reading & understanding• Read your work multiple times• Read your out loud to hear how sentences flow & find typos• Ask a colleague to review your work• Review work objectively

© E.M.M.A. INTERNATIONAL CONSULTING GROUP, INC. 6

Stay Fresh• Switch tasks to keep from getting bogged down in one project and keep tasks interesting

• Take a walk to clear your head and give you renewed perspective and energy

• Avoid overload• Additional pressure and stress will hinder your productivity and effectiveness

• Eat healthy, get plenty of sleep and exercise

© E.M.M.A. INTERNATIONAL CONSULTING GROUP, INC. 7

Now It’s Up To You• Plan, Focus, and Stay Fresh

Key Strategies for Improving Attention to Detail

• Accomplishing tasks correctly the first time will save you time and money

• Share these techniques with your team, organization, and company to reap the benefits of a keen attention to detail company wide