In a recent blog I recommended that you audit your countermeasure effectiveness and provided a checklist. I have some additional advice about lean culture creation.

Let’s talk about homework…I never liked homework anyway! When I say that the best homework is no homework I mean that you (as leaders) should encourage associates to focus on getting things done vs. allowing folks to create lists. Long homework lists are a sign of scope creep.

For the ongoing lists on your SQDC boards, distinguish between the ‘quick hits’ and those that require additional resources. Use a difficulty impact analysis or a 9 block grid to prioritize items to focus on first. However, there will be numerous items that are low in difficulty where people can ‘just do it’. Involve the entire team to take ownership to get these done quickly. Provide coaching and training to ensure success. As problem solving and root cause analysis skills improve, the capability of the organization, speed of implementation and sustainment will increase.