Issue 1 • December 2010
Training Topic: Maximizing Human Talent
Let’s discuss the application of the cycle time/ takt time bar chart. The work needed to be balanced to a three person operation with a takt time of 45 seconds. First waste was removed, and then a trial was run. After the trial, the manual cycle times were at 22 seconds, 61 seconds, and 40 seconds.
The team immediately decided that the second person was not going to be able to complete the work within the takt time and we should add an additional person.
On first glance this looked plausible and perhaps the only option. However, after re-studying the process the team was able to eliminate more waste and re-balance the work without flow stoppages and complete step 2 in the takt time.
The fundamental question is are we trying to make the work easier, or are we trying to free up wasted manpower? Many teams default to making the work easier. But it is management's responsibility to free up excess manpower to make people available for adding value in another part of the organization.
Making the correct decision saved a Full Time Equivalent, along with an 18% improvement in throughput. Do you have the courage to make the right decision?
New Lean Training Courses in 2011
A-4 Problem Solving, March 2011
This course is a brand new workshop introducing a new lean tool, the A-4. The training is designed to teach participants root cause problem solving based on lean principles. Root cause problem solving eliminates problems permanently.
Included in the workshop are learning key problem solving skills including defining the problem statement, determining the direct cause of a problem, developing soft and hard countermeasures, and tracking the results. The curriculum includes problem solving theory, application and use of the A-4 problem solving tool, and includes hands-on problem solving of actual, clinical and administrative problems.
Training Toward Lean Certification, June 2011
Over 100 individuals have already participated in this popular three day program is designed to facilitate group discussion, learn the fundamentals of lean improvement, and prepare for the body of knowledge of exam necessary to achieve fully accredited, bronze level lean certification through the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), the Association for Manufacturing Excellence (AME) and The Shingo Prize for Operational Excellence.
This program teaches Lean theory, cross-walks the manufacturing theory to healthcare, and assists in preparation for the formal exam.
Detailed information about the training can be found on the Events page.
