ABSTRACT

Rapid improvement events are workshops in which processes are analyzed and improved in days or weeks for a larger scope. This chapter discusses the step-by-step activities necessary to successfully prepare and conduct rapid improvement events. Deployment leaders have a responsibility to identify where to deploy rapid improvement events to ensure the right focus on business outcomes. The project charter describes the scope, i.e., the area in which the team will focus its improvement efforts, the process owner, and the local work team. As an example, if the event is focused on cleaning up a work area, i.e., 5S, floor layouts should be available to show the location of workstations, equipment, and people. The data includes process maps, floor layouts, work and inspection procedures, operational and financial reports, and examples of good and bad performance as applicable.