DMAIC is the problem-solving approach that drives Lean Six Sigma. It's a five-phase method—Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control—for improving existing process problems with unknown causes. DMAIC is based on the Scientific Method and it's pronounced "duh-may-ik." To build your understanding of the method, and help you apply it to…
Government has its own set of challenges with quickly applying process improvement and seeing improvement results. This 15 minute video shows how a government section used a Process Walk as an approach to understand the process. The process walk was facilitated by Tracy O'Rourke to create a safe environment promoting…
A process map is an important part of any Lean Six Sigma project – it helps communicate the process at the center of your project and guides you to specific areas of focus. There are a number of choices available, and choosing the right map helps to clarify your efforts.…
The Lean Six Sigma toolset makes use of a variety of process maps. Each of these diagrams aids in understanding the flow and making it clear how the process works. Although detailed mapping is key to good process improvement, I would venture that properly constructing a high-level map first, can…
What Is a Process Walk? Process Walks are also known as “Going to Gemba.” Gemba is a Japanese term that translates to “go to the real place.” A Process Walk means an improvement team physically walks the whole process together while conducting interviews with those that work in the process.…
“Gemba” is a Japanese word that translates into “the site” or “the place of work.” There is a related word, “Gembutsu” which means the “actual thing.” We “go to the Gemba” to find out what is really happening. That might be a nice piece of philosophy, but what does it…
Process improvement is a bit like detective work. You have the DMAIC method, but you also need to follow the clues. These are 3 cautionary tales about what can happen if you don’t clarify your customers’ true needs before trying to deliver on their requirements. We’ll let you in on…
A Process Walk, also known as a Gemba Walk, consists of a team of people walking a Value Stream together. The Japanese word "Gemba" translates to, “go to the real place.” This means go to where the work is being performed, even if that work is performed in cubicles. Process…
When starting any process improvement effort, whether it’s a Quick Win, a Kaizen or a larger Green Belt Project, building the “As Is” Process Map is an essential first step. Teams often find immediate and actionable opportunities for improvement simply by uncovering “the way we do things now." The following…