Question

Identify an important problem around your work or school, and apply the DMAIC process to develop a better solution. Use at least two process improvement tools.

• An analysis for each phase of the DMAIC process with regard to your problem (at least one paragraph should be written for each phase).
• At least two process improvement tools related to your analysis should be created

Answer 1

The important problem that was identified in my workplace is the minimal acceptance of the Rewards and Recognition Committee. When I took up the leadership role for the committee, there was least acceptance of the committee by the department’s employees. Using the DMAIC approach for the problem-

· Define- The problem is defined, opportunities for improvement and project goals were set. The process improvement tool that was used was value stream mapping that was customer (employees) focused. The value stream mapping was started and finished with the customer as the focal point to understand their needs.

· Measure- The process performance was measured to understand the ability of the process to meet the expectations set. Data is collected in this step for further analysis. The type of errors are detected in this phase. They are then compared with the employee surveys to determine the shortfall in the committee’s performance.

· Analyze- The root cause of the problem was identified in this phase. The data collected and the process map was compared to analyze the defects or causes of low acceptance level of the employees. Root cause analysis (RCA) is a process improvement tool as well. It was observed that the root cause of the problem was lack of transparency of the selection criteria and the employees also felt that they selection was biased.

· Improve- The process is improved by eliminating the root causes. Kaizen event was used to make the quick changes in the process and using the views of the employees who perform the tasks. Process flowcharting was used to create a new flowchart keeping in mind the employees’ requirements. The new process was shared to the whole department via departmental presentation.

· Control- Quality control measures were in place to avoid the process to deviate or reverting to the old method. The new process was implemented via adequate training to the employees. The new process improvements was also documented and circulated to all the employees to gain familiarity and use the new process model. The employee survey that was taken after the process improvements were done showed a result of 99% acceptance level!!

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