01Jun 2026 by Jennifer Ayers
Foundational AI for CI Professionals | Sept 21-Oct 8

Foundational AI for CI Professionals | Sept 21-Oct 8

Application~, Beginner~, Classes, Igniting Innovation~, Intermediate~
From Prompt to Standard Work This six-module virtual workshop is for people focusing on process improvements in their organization and want to use AI tools the right way, not just poke around and hope for good results. You'll start by learning how AI language models actually work and what makes them useful (or not) for your work. From there, you'll build your own simple, reusable files that AI can use to help with the recurring CI tasks you already do, like writing reports, standardizing templates, or summarizing data. Think of it as building standard work for AI collaboration: a repeatable process with built-in checks, so you can trust the results. Everything is taught through hands-on exercises based on real CI work, not abstract AI theory. Learning Outcomes By the end…
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25Jan 2024 by Jennifer Ayers
A3 Problem Solving – Feb 29th (& Mar 6th) – FULL

A3 Problem Solving – Feb 29th (& Mar 6th) – FULL

Application~, Classes, Developing People~, Igniting Innovation~, Intermediate~, Solving Problems~
In Person A3 Problem Solving Immersive Workshop This 2-part A3 Problem Solving workshop aims to equip participants with the skills to facilitate team problem solving using a structured approach that combines A3 problem solving with Liberating Structures. The objective is to unleash creativity and positive engagement among team members, essential for building a lean culture. Through hands-on practice and immersion in an 8-step A3 framework, participants will learn to walk through the A3 problem solving process while learning methods to involve people in the process through fun and creative activities. Objective: Learn to facilitate team problem solving by providing a little bit of structure to unleash a wealth of creativity and positive engagement. Purpose: Engaging associates in problem solving is key to building a lean culture. In particular, A3 problem…
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15Jan 2023 by Jennifer Ayers

Practical Problem Solving (8-Step)

Application~, Igniting Innovation~, Intermediate~, Solving Problems~
Speciality Workshop Problem Solving is the foundation of Continuous Improvement. The tools within a Lean operating system are designed to identify problems. Do you have standardization and the expertise at all levels of your organization to solve them? The extent that you train and engage your organization in problem solving will ultimately determine your success in the lean journey. Mike Hoseus, co-author of Toyota Culture, will review how a Lean organization establishes their culture for problem solving at all levels. This Executive Forum will highlight the 8-Step systematic problem solving process through examples and case studies in the Overview Session, followed by an optional 2-day hands on Gemba Workshop. The Practical Problem Solving Overview Session is intended for a large audience and is a standalone event.  The Problem Solving 2-day…
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15Jan 2023 by Jennifer Ayers

Structured Problem Solving

Application~, Igniting Innovation~, Intermediate~, Solving Problems~
Facilitated by Mike Orzen, this workshop will present a structured process for identifying problems and determining the most effective ways to eliminate them. We go beyond the basics of PDCA to explore the key skills needed for lasting success in problem solved, including the use of Cause Mapping. Finally, we’ll cover the common mistakes people make when attempting structured problem solving. What you will learn: Effective structured problem solving The psychological aspect of PDCA A tool that enforces logical reasoning for better problem solving Why most people are not really doing PDCA (but they think they are) Common mistakes to avoid What you will do: Immediately be a more effective problem solver Avoid the pitfalls that prevent effective problem solving Be able to share these techniques with others Structured Problem…
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15Jan 2023 by Jennifer Ayers

PDCA Thinking

Beginner~, Foundational~, Igniting Innovation~, Solving Problems~
The purpose of this hands-on workshop is to develop problem solving skills using a pattern of learning through alignment and experimentation.  Additionally, participants will build skills to demonstrate these best practices throughout their organizations.   This interactive workshop complements classroom learning with hands-on application exercises.  The exercises teach attendees how to incorporate PDCA concepts into daily practice to solve problems, attain business strategies, and achieve operational excellence in their organization. Key Concepts:  Understand Plan-Do-Check-Adjust Thinking.  Define each component and understand how to apply PDCA as a foundational element of learning and discovery. Effectively connect Strategy Deployment to real business improvement through alignment of focused daily/rapid PDCA experiments and learning cycles. Recognize how Plan-Do-Check-Adjust thinking impacts every level of the organization. Human development, leadership, strategy, organization design, system and process flow, project execution…
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15Jan 2023 by Jennifer Ayers

Improvement & Coaching Kata (IK 201)

Developing People~, Igniting Innovation~, Intermediate~, Solving Problems~
This four-hour class uses a puzzle building simulation to teach the 4-step pattern of the Improvement Kata.  Attendees will practice Grasping the Current Condition, Establishing a Target Condition, and using PDCA to experiment towards the established Target Condition.  Additionally, attendees will practice two Coaching rounds using information gathered in Current Condition, Target Condition, and experimentation. Key Concepts: Learn how the Improvement Kata differs from other Lean approaches Understand the 4-Step Improvement Kata pattern and practice within three of the four steps Practice two Coaching routines: One during Grasping the Current Condition and the second after a Target Condition has been established Understand the role of Learner and Coach and the responsibilities of each Audience: Those who are new to the Kata approach who want to learn the improvement pattern or…
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