ABSTRACT
For formal process improvement projects, there are usually a plethora of large cross-functional projects to select from. It is recommended that only four to six large-scale cross-functional projects are selected per year. People have to see and feel change happening and feel positive results in order to remain motivated. Time should be allotted to assess how the continuous improvement process itself is working. Although the focus should be on results, it is better not to focus on just one type of result. The first year plan schedule should also consider the following issues: limiting the number of Lean tools to start with; including the Lean trainer/facilitator in the scheduling process; being conscious of key people and the extent of their workloads; incorporating different people instead of the same few; and avoiding busy times for involved departments such as the beginning of the semester for student related services.
