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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15Jan 2023 by Jennifer Ayers

Intro to the Improvement Kata 101 (IK 101)

Application~, Beginner~, Solving Problems~
This class is an experiential introduction to the improvement cycle and coaching cycle of the Toyota Kata, a structured approach to continuous improvement that helps people develop a scientific mindset.  Designed for beginners, but some knowledge of lean is helpful. How fast can you lay out 24 cards in a precise sequence? You’ll discover that and more in this starter Kata class. You will be introduced to a structured improvement cycle that will let you discover how to reach a significant challenge in a series of incremental experiments. Led with a coaching pattern, you will learn how to take a step, make a prediction, observe the outcome and learn from it in a way that can inform your next step. You will leave familiar with these two patterns of working…
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15Jan 2023 by Jennifer Ayers

Intro to Lean

Beginner~, Foundational~, Solving Problems~
Intro to Lean is a beginning-level course that teaches participants the basic concepts of Lean Thinking through an interactive in-person simulation (paper airplanes). It is suitable for participants who work in office or manufacturing environments and includes many real-world examples from a wide variety of work environments. Intro to Lean is a prerequisite to many of the other classes we offer. This course is a full-day class focused on the foundational elements of lean and the importance of respect for people. Topics covered include: Waste, Value Add, Leadership, Customer Value, Strategy Continuous Improvement Cycle, 8 Wastes, 5S, Visual Controls, Physical Layout, Single Piece Flow Value Stream Mapping, Takt Time vs Cycle Time, Pull, Kanban 5 Why’s, Cross Training, Set Up Reduction/TPM, Standard Work, Mistake Proofing, Team Huddle, Metrics Audience: Applicable…
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15Jan 2023 by Jennifer Ayers

5S Workplace Organization

Application~, Beginner~, Foundational~, Solving Problems~
5S is a beginning/intermediate level course that teaches participants the value proposition of 5S through hands-on implementation in a real work environment. It is suitable for participants working in office or manufacturing environments. Attendees will alternate between learning and doing, resulting in hands-on application of 5S organizing/improving an area at a host company. Key Concepts: Understanding that 5S is a problem exposure tool Defining the 5 S’s (plus Safety) Documenting the current state, using the DOWNTIME concept to identify waste Planning a 5S event (event definition, leadership roles, steps for planning and executing the event) Putting the 5S into action Establishing visual controls, documenting standards, creating an audit process Prerequisite: Lean 101/Intro to Lean or exposure to foundational lean concepts within your work environment. Audience: Depending on the location of…
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