Continual Improvement

Corrective action to fix an existing problem is NOT continual improvement. It is certainly an important component of continual improvement.

However, according to the definition in ISO 9000-2000 continual improvement is "recurring activity to increase the ability to fulfil requirements. The process of establishing objectives and finding opportunities for improvements is a continual process through the use of audit findings and audit conclusions, analysis of data, management reviews or other means and generally leads to corrective action or preventive action."

According to that information corrective action is a result of continual improvement and not the other way around.

Not an option

Continual improvement is an absolute necessity today. Global competition demands companies keep-up with the latest strategies and techniques.

Continual improvement just for the sake of improvement does not count when it comes to survival. It must produce positive and meaningful bottom line $$$ results. Continual improvement without improved profit may help a company to get or keep their ISO, AS or TS certification. But, it is an empty victory without the profit angle.

Sub-Optimized

It doesn't make any difference what system or methodology of continual improvement an organization uses. Whether it's Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, or Lean Six Sigma, if you choose the wrong processes to improve it can lead to sub-optimized results.

Top management speaks the language of money. If changes can't produce a substantial return on investment, top management loses interest in a hurry. And when management loses interest the program dies a slow death.

Today's manufacturing economy demands that we wisely use every penny. Money spent on improving low priority processes with mediocre performance is a waste of time and money. And, time is money.

Process Evaluation

Learn how to find the right processes for improvement using three dimensions of evaluation. So many times it's the squeaky wheel that gets the grease when there are silent and sub-optimized processes that have a greater need for attention. Processes that will produce a much greater return when they are improved.

Learn how to evaluate and select the most important processes for continual improvement. Make sound data based decisions that your management will endorse and support.

You can have this class presented at your business for less than $53.00.per person. Travel expenses not included.

Class is one day.

The course includes:

·          Introduction and overview

·        Targeting processes for improvement

·        Step 1 - Data collection

·        Step 2 - Process targeting

·        Step 3 - Process alignment and oversight

·        Step 4 - Manage and improve

·        The Bottom Line

Additional Resources