There are numerous ways of achieving these goals but the basic rule is to follow the seven waste principles of Lean.

Training staff in functional and management skills provides them with the knowledge to use the system effectively to drive performance forward.

Performance improvement should normally be driven by a clear understanding of the issues affecting performance. The issues are often hidden, ignored or avoided but in all cases they are driven by peoples’ behaviours. To properly understand performance, an objective review of all processes in the end-to-end value stream and an analysis using the Lean Template is the best way to expose the route causes and engage the whole organisation in a common understanding.

The business then needs to set out a clear plan with achievable objectives and most importantly some immediate action. Transparent tracking of achievements versus the plan and regular review is needed to maintain momentum and deliver the results.