Abstract

Processes are at the core of continuous improvement, and improvement can occur when a process is changed in some way. Quality tools such as kaizen events, just-in-time manufacturing, and Six Sigma projects have been developed to make processes more effective and efficient. It is often difficult for an organization to decide which of these methodologies and philosophies to use in process management. Process improvement teams must understand the definitions of the methodology, tools and change vehicles available to them since the impact of mismatches can be fatal to a fledgling improvement program. To prevent this from happening, the process problem needs to be accurately characterized during the define phase, and a proper match must be achieved.