The Checklist Manifesto 

Often some of the most profound learnings and impactful changes are simple in theory. The checklist is one of those things. A simple checklist can make a huge difference, especially in repetitive, high-impact situations. 

Atul Gawande is an accomplished surgeon and well-known author. He dives into the nuances of checklists to spread the benefits of the simple yet profound tool called a checklist. The book’s sub-heading of “how to get things right” explains the goal of a checklist and Gawande goes even further into the benefits of just getting something right. 

Gawande chronicles his own journey as a surgeon trying to tackle the problem of complications during and after surgeries. He outlines how the research and benefits of checklists came to be in operating rooms worldwide through research at the World Health Organization. One story on the origin of checklists in healthcare recounts a dramatic rescue in Alps where the patient came back and survived almost impossible odds. 

He also goes on to discuss why checklists are so impactful. His descriptions of simple, complicated, and complex tasks help us understand why and how checklists work. Most impactful are checklists that serve complex tasks. Complex tasks have uncertain outcomes due to many different factors. Checklists help in these situations by reminding people of the minimum steps required, instilling discipline, empowering people to ask the right questions at the right time, and identifying concerns or potential concerns. 

Additional stories also make this book engaging to read. Gawande oulines how checklists were first used by the United States Air Force to fly highly complicated aircraft. He also outlines how construction, usually complex projects, can use checklists for both operations and communication. Checklists are even shared in the investment banking arena with incredible results. 

Checklists aren’t just for shopping lists and chore to-do lists. Gawande proves how a well-designed and executed checklist can save lives, save (or make) money, and precipitate success even in complex situations. Pick up a copy of The Checklist Manifesto and see how you might incorporate these benefits into your business or professional life.