Process improvement project - Measure -
Following the DMAIC methodology, the Measure phase comes after the Define phase.
In this phase, the team focuses on data collection, which is a significant effort in terms of time.
Go to Tools, our resource area to help you identify, select and refine your process improvement project , in order to deliver quantifiable and sustainable results.
What can be measured in a lean office Process?
So you have a Process in place, and you want to measure it. In a Lean office environment, you don't always have a production output rate, number of pieces, or defects ppm. So what can you measure?
Here are some suggestions on what can be measured from an administrative perspective:
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Process steps
Total number of steps to complete the process. When looking to improve a process containing many steps, aim for reduction.
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Value added process steps
These are the number of process steps which add value to a service or product. Aim to increase the proportion of value added steps, or eliminate non‐value added steps.
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Decisions
These are the Decision Points, in other words, where a process changes for different situations. Employees must decide at this point the appropriate path to follow. A process normally requires a Decision Point when a goal varies by service or product. Typically you should aim for reduction of the number of Decision Points.
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Signatures required
Number of Approvals needed. Approvals usually involve lengthy delays, and handoffs. Aim for reduction of number of approvers if your business Schedule Of Authorisation allows.
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Handoffs
The number of times the service or product changes hands. This can be a source for errors, miscommunication, or delays. Aim for reduction of number of handoffs.
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Loop backs
When steps of a process must be repeated, these are called loopbacks. Loopbacks are normally included in a process to correct errors or locate missing information. If the process is followed correctly to start, then loopbacks can be avoided. Aim for reduction quickly.