Chris Baker Chris Baker

7 Essential Project Management Techniques In 2024

Project Management is not a one size fits all topic, and project managers should always be on the lookout for new techniques and methodologies to add to their repertoire. This article provides a high level overview of some of the most common PM techniques. With the importance of continually improving project management skills, learning more about these techniques can be a game-changer for your business.

Read More
Chris Baker Chris Baker

The Workcell Square

The Workcell Square model is a development of my own that I put together decades ago, even before I started studying lean, as a simple, but very useful way to consider the fundamental requirements of the workcell. I’ve tweaked it a bit over the years (I originally called it a workcell triangle) but have kept it simple to ensure that it remains useful and accessible.

Read More
Chris Baker Chris Baker

Conclusion: Why You Should Consider Implementing a Lean Business Model

If you’re looking for a justification to implement a lean business model, look no further. This article provides 12 justifications for pursuing lean, each from a different benefit perspective. Discover the transformative potential of lean principles in your organisation by reading the full article.

Read More
Chris Baker Chris Baker

Top 10 Tips for Successful Implementation Of Lean and Six Sigma

Diego Rodriguez nails some key points in this article, particularly in his points about behaviour, the need for productivity improvement to be part of the organisations goals and strategies and a top down approach. I know I bang on about it, but understanding the tools and methodologies of Lean and Six Sigma will not translate to significant, sustainable productivity improvement if the leadership capability and commitment is lacking, which is why our transformation programs are designed to develop both lean six-sigma knowledge and leadership capability at all levels.

Read More
Chris Baker Chris Baker

Lean Leadership: how to be a Lean Leader in a Lean Company

Lean leadership is a critical concept for organisations aiming to optimise processes and enhance efficiency. By focusing on continuous improvement, effective communication, and empowering teams, it enables organisations to drive sustainable growth.

Read More
Chris Baker Chris Baker

Lean Six Sigma misconceptions and Successful Examples

I come across many misconceptions about Lean and Six Sigma during my day to day work. This article is a good summary and aligns closely with my experience in listing some of the common myths, while also emphasising the true value and potential of lean and six-sigma methodologies in enhancing operational efficiency and effectiveness.

Read More
Chris Baker Chris Baker

The Small Business Guide to Surviving Soaring Costs

Increasing costs are currently a significant challenge for small businesses, and they can be a major barrier to growth and sustainability. Reviewing your cost base and finding strategies to minimise the impact is very important in the existing climate.

Read More
Chris Baker Chris Baker

Unlocking Hidden Potential: The Power of Process and Value Stream Mapping in Modern Business

The quest for operational excellence, cost-efficiency, and superior customer experience often leads savvy organisations to delve beneath the surface of their existing processes. It is here that Process and Value Stream Mapping emerge as indispensable tools, offering a pathway to uncover hidden potential and drive transformative changes in business operations.

Read More
Chris Baker Chris Baker

Unlocking Efficiency: How Kaizen Sparks Rapid Process Improvement

Every organisation strives to streamline processes, optimise workflows, and maximise productivity. However, achieving these goals often proves elusive amidst the complexities of operational challenges. Enter Kaizen, a Japanese philosophy that champions continuous improvement.

Read More
Josh Cohen Josh Cohen

Using Agile Project Management for Continuous Improvement Projects

For most Lean Six-Sigma practitioners, the heart of CI (Continuous improvement) Project is the A3 Project Plan, usually following the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control) structure. The Improve section typically includes some form of description of who is going to do what, when, preferably in a visual form such as a simple Gantt chart. But, for larger more complex CI project the A3 on its own can lack sufficient information or detail, and manage the project .

Read More
Chris Baker Chris Baker

Using AGILE Project Management for Continuous Improvement Projects

For most Lean Six-Sigma practitioners, the heart of a CI (continuous improvement) Project is the A3 Project Plan, usually following the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control) structure. The Improve section typically includes some form of description of who is going to do what, when, preferably in a visual form such as a simple Gantt chart.

Read More