Visual Management is a methodology used by businesses with the goal of improving communication, organization, safety and efficiency by using visual indicators and easy-to-understand cues which provide relevant and contextual information to employees and stakeholders about business activities. There are various types of visual management systems, each with particular pros and cons. When implementing a … Read more
Many companies use 5S to improve efficiency within their workplace. Its principles, focusing on establishing a clean and well-organized work environment, can bring about improvements in several areas, from safety to quality and productivity. However, many organizations struggle to sustain the changes implemented and, as a result, fail to obtain planned benefits. As a result … Read more
Mistake Proofing is a continuous improvement methodology used to drive quality by preventing errors from occurring within a process. Mistake proofing is achieved by identifying potential sources of mistakes and then implementing safeguards in order that such mistakes can be prevented. For example, by implementing limit switches on equipment within a manufacturing environment, we can … Read more
Process capability analysis is a statistical methodology that uses data to determine a process’s capability and performance, specifically its ability to repeatedly produce an output that meets specifications. The methodology provides a systematic approach when evaluating the performance of a process enabling a better understanding of variability and complying with specifications. In today’s article, we’ll … Read more
A Process behaviour chart is a tool used within quality control and process improvement to assess and describe a process’s variability over time. Through capturing (and interpreting) variability in process output, an organization can gain an understanding of causes such as random acts vs predictable patterns. The insight gained can be used in activities such … Read more
Standardized work in Six Sigma (Lean Six Sigma) refers to a methodology of determining and documenting the most efficient and effective way of executing a given process whilst obtaining consistency and repeatability. This methodology will typically involve identifying each step within a process and then, whilst being aware of influencing factors such as materials, tools, … Read more
Statistics in Quality refers to widely used methodologies that are employed to capture and analyze data in order to determine aspects such as A variety of statistical methods are commonly used; these include: In this article, we’ll be looking at how we utilize statistical methods in Quality; we’ll be covering What are Statistics in Quality? … Read more
Visual problem-solving is a method where an individual or team uses visual tools such as charts, indicators, diagrams, infographics, and pictures as an integrated part of the problem-solving process to both understand and generate solutions to given problems. Visual problem-solving has several characteristics, including simplifying complex issues and lends itself to use in business when … Read more
A time value map is a graphical or chart-based tool that describes a process, characterizing how it is built up from steps that do or do not add value. The resultant “map” allows us to assess a process and, through continuous improvement activity, highlight areas that may be evaluated and enhanced to increase value add. … Read more
Measuring performance improvement is a business strategy that involves analyzing the effect of changes made to business activities (such as processes, policies, organization and systems) in order to determine improvements achieved (such as increased production quantities, sales, customers, and improved quality). Measuring performance improvement is critical to determining the success of continuous improvement activities. In … Read more