Module 4 - Chapter 1 – Introduction and Outcomes PDF

## MODULE 4 | UNDERSTANDING AND ANALYSING PROCESSES ### CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION AND OUTCOMES #### 1.1 INTRODUCTION Module 4: Understanding and Analysing Processes, will assist in energising the workplace as it introduces methods of mapping a process (actual workflow and information), from end to...

## MODULE 4 | UNDERSTANDING AND ANALYSING PROCESSES ### CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION AND OUTCOMES #### 1.1 INTRODUCTION Module 4: Understanding and Analysing Processes, will assist in energising the workplace as it introduces methods of mapping a process (actual workflow and information), from end to end. It serves as a starting point to help management, technical specialists, team members and in-process suppliers and customers to recognise wasteful processes or activities in a process, to eliminate or significantly reduce those, and to identify its causes. The process includes physically mapping the 'as is' (also referred to as 'current state'), while also focusing on going towards the 'to be' (or the 'future state'). The purpose of this module is to teach the mapping, analysis and redesign of processes by teams. There are various benefits to process mapping, analysis and redesign for managers, teams and organisations: - It helps to visualise the activities in a process. - It helps to identify improvement opportunities where wasteful activities are performed. - It provides a common language for talking about process improvement. - It makes the decisions about workflows clear, so it can be discussed in Performance-Driven Teams. - It ties together concepts and techniques for process improvement. - It shows the linkage between information flow and workflow. - It forms the basis of an implementation plan for process improvement. #### 1.2 OUTCOMES OF THE MODULE The module's main outcomes are to: - Train people in the methodology and concepts of process mapping and analysis. - Identify, document and analyse processes using: - Physical flow maps - Value stream maps - Process flow maps - Process improvement log sheets - 'Stand in the circle' observation technique - Establish an understanding at team level of relevant productivity, efficiency, effectiveness and utilisation measures. - Use appropriate techniques to identify and eliminate non-value-adding processes or wasteful activities in a certain process. - Develop and manage improvement action plans to streamline processes through the elimination of wasteful activities or the elimination of ineffective processes altogether. - Measure and visually display progress with the implementation of Module 4. ### ACTIVITY 1 1. Make a list of the main processes in your unit or department that you follow on a regular basis. 2. Compile a short list: Which of the above processes have quick-win opportunities that can be solved through process analysis techniques?