University of Utah's value improvement leadership training.
VALUE
IMPROVEMENT
LEADERS
TOPIC #2| February 7
572 words + 1 Activity| 35 minutes (5 to read email, 30 to watch video)
OVERVIEW
Value Improvement Methodology
Problem-solving runs into challenges when an immediate solution is implemented as a reaction to the problem. Following a proven, structured, and balanced improvement methodology forces reflection on a problem.
PRINCIPLE
Using a Value Improvement Methodology focused on process encourages sustainability.
TOOL
University of Utah's general Value Improvement Methodology is based on lean and six sigma with the following six phases: Project Definition, Baseline Analysis, Investigation, Design, Implement, and Monitor.
STEVENOTE
"If there's a problem, yo, I'll solve it.
Check out the hook while my DJ revolves it."
- Robert Matthew Van Winkle
LET'S BEGIN
The Problems with Old-School Problem-Solving
Like Robert Matthew Van Winkle, many of us proudly consider ourselves problem-solvers. Maybe your career has been accelerated by old-school problem solving.
Problem-solving runs into challenges when an immediate solution is implemented as a reaction to the problem. Following a proven, structured, and balanced improvement methodology forces reflection on a problem.
Why use a methodology when problem solving could be faster or easier AND gets the same results? This class is about proving to you that it's better to use a methodology than to simply problem solve.
Focus On Results Vs. Focus On Process
Of course we want better results. We want increased value defined by the value equation:
However, when we focus strictly on results… When we jump to solving problems, sustainability is weak and we are susceptible to this pattern:
To prevent the above pattern, we need process thinkers. We need this pattern:
Our Methodology and the Problems it Prevents
At the University of Utah, we use a general value improvement methodology based on lean and six sigma with the following phases:
Expertise Not Needed
Don’t let anyone tell you lean six sigma, “is just common sense.” Much of the methodology is counter-intuitive but it makes sense with practice. That’s what your project (and your coach) are for.
