Articles
Institutional Equity with a Lean Process Improvement Lens
This paper examines deficiencies in existing systems that move students and faculty through engineering programs by using lean principles to develop systematic improvements through value stream analysis and proven problem-solving techniques.
The Right Tool for the Job
A regional acute care hospital in the Midwest wanted to reduce waste and improve patient care, but it went about it the wrong way. Instead of taking a lean approach to value stream analysis, the quality improvement team chose a Six Sigma approach. The author compares the two approches and expalins why the team should have chosen a lean approach instead.
Leaning toward Green
Organizations can often overlook wastes related to material and energy sources. Traditonal lean tools can be used to cut energy use, curtail over-production and improve the bottom line. One military supplier used lean to uncover ways to reduce its energy use and environment-related waste, building a more efficient production cycle.
Clean House with Lean 5S
A 5S system (sort, set in order, shine, standardize and sustain) creates a disciplined, clean and well-ordered work environment. Many organizations implement only the first three steps and then wonder why the system doesn't work. Lack of a robust 5S system makes other lean tools ineffective.
Papers
5SI: How to Organize the Workplace to be More Inclusive
5S inclusive visual workplace organization, that is, 5SI, at its best, creates a safe space where people can efficiently work and where various cultures, gender identities, and races and ethnicities can be supported, recognized, and celebrated. This is the aim of 5SI.