Process Improvement

We apply the principles of Business Process Re-engineering (BPR) and Continuous Improvement (CI) to the job of improving your processes.

There are many indications that a process is inefficient:-

• Delays
• Accumulations of work in progress
• Cost over runs
• Poor quality work
• Inaccuracy
• Dissatisfied customers

Even processes that appear to be efficient may be capable of significant improvement. We believe that the place to start with any performance improvement programme is a critical examination of the processes employed.

BPR is about the improvement of productivity by examining the entire process rather than specific activities or functions. Continuous improvement takes a more detailed approach and aims to include all team members. It is not a single tool or technique, more a cultural approach to process improvement.

Continuous Improvement has its own language, which you may have heard but not necessarily understood. Here is a short glossary of terms:-

• KAIZEN, a Japanese word meaning gradual and orderly, continuous improvement
• LEAN, which is characterised by operations with low inventories, small batch runs and just-in-time delivery of supplies
• SIX SIGMA, which deploys statistical process control, total quality management, process improvement and inventory control
• 5S, an approach to organising a workplace which is often one of the early techniques used as organisations move towards becoming 'lean'

We can help you find a way through the maze of techniques to find the right approach for your organisation in your quest for continuous improvement.

We can:-

• Produce a process improvement strategy
• Introduce a continuous improvement culture
• Coach your team in the techniques
• Facilitate continuous improvement teams
• Monitor results and mentor your teams

Please have a look at our list of white papers and case studies for more detail of how these systems can be applied.

If you would like to talk this over with an experienced consultant, at no obligation then call us on 01527 834689 or email us at info@broadoakpartnership.co.uk