Prevent Problems
The improvement process is a
continuous cycle
Approach the improvement process as a team.
Individuals can identify problems but often lack solutions
Coworkers can form teams to prioritize complex problems and find
solutions.
Teamwork Advantages:
- Brings together diverse knowledge and skills.
- Encourages cooperation among different departments or divisions.
- Communicates the need for improvement and the status of
improvement efforts.
- Gets the job done despite individual differences.
- Identifies strategties for becoming better team players and
maximizing team effectiveness.
Measurement
- Use measurement as a bridge between process knowledge and
identifying problems.
- What process are you measuring?
- Why are you measuring this process? What do you hope to
accomplish?
- How will you measure the process (what method)?
- What will you do with the results of the measurement?
Prioritize Cost of Quality
- Measure quality in terms of what it costs when things are done
incorrectly.
- What is the cost if there is no improvement?
- Consider all expenses involved.
- List activities that result in avoidable costs.
Problem Solving
- Define the situation. What's wrong? Clearly describe the problem.
- Do a temporary "quick fix," if necessary.
- Identify root cause(s).
- Take corrective action.
- Evaluate and follow up to make sure the problem is really solved.
For information on training call
Wendy Younk 6-0526
