Continuous Process Improvement, Data Science, and Statistical Analysis
A recent article in Harvard Business Review calls to attention some of the challenges inherent in analyzing Human Resources data. The writer, Peter Cappelli, points out that analysis of HR data is hampered by a variety of factors including legal issues encountered when crossing international borders, lack of abundant data, and a sense that not…
I just added a new book to my Resources page on my site. Mike Pereira’s new book After Further Review: My Life Including the Infamous, Controversial, and Unforgettable Calls That Changed the NFL has some great nuggets on change management that apply to any change methodology you may be using. It is a must-read if…
Can a tool forced to fit a catchy acronym actually work? I’ve lately found myself conducting a lot of 6M analyses… You know, the Ishikawa/Cause & Effect Diagram/Fishbone Analysis. It is a great tool to look a little deeper into the causes of problems. It can be used to do root cause analysis, or it…
At its heart, Continuous Improvement requires persuasive communication skills. This is because of the inherent resistance to change that all change agents encounter. Make no mistake: people don’t want to change. If they did, tobacco manufacturers would have gone the way of the dodo many decades ago. But people like their bad habits, no matter…
In any change leadership situation, it can be challenging to get buy-in from the people involved. This is especially true when changing culture. There are many ways to approach this challenge in Continuous Process Improvement. Involving those affected by the change in the decision-making process is incredibly important, as is communication of expectations. Quite possibly…
Shigeo Shingo is well-known in Continuous Process Improvement, and his ideas permeate much of what is accomplished in the CPI arena. One of my favorite ideas that came from him follows in the quote below, and it can be a big help to you if you are seeking direction in how to approach your Lean…
You always have opportunity to give feedback to team members. Usually it will be good feedback. Occasionally, you will have to give negative feedback. Here is an easy way to soften the blow when delivering negative feedback: Start with a positive -Emphasize something the team member has done well. -Be sincere, not fluffy. Don’t “blow…