Lean and Six Sigma are often used to curb organizational problems and promote greater operational efficiency. Almost by definition, they are about reducing waste and strapping resources. For that reason, however, Lean and Six Sigma are seen as antithetical to innovation. But this is clearly not true. In fact, when implemented effectively, Lean practices can
Continue reading »Managers, executives and other decision-makers have to wear a number of hats. While their responsibilities shift according to job, industry and personal style, the ability to identify inefficiencies and implement effective solutions is always a top priority. In fact, IndustryWeek contributor Jill Jusko, argues that the ability to leverage Kaizen and other continuous improvement efforts
Continue reading »When it comes to Lean practices within the healthcare industry, the extent to which organizations measure their processes directly influences how successful their quality improvement efforts are. For example, when it comes to hiring and recruiting, metrics are needed to quantify returns on talent management investments to key stakeholders. Michael DiPietro points out in Healthcare
Continue reading »Toy manufacturer Hasbro is launching a sustainable packaging initiative that aims to reduce its environmental impact and improve operational performance through a variety of Lean practices. Officials estimate the program will result in a 15 percent improvement in the average product-to-package ratio for participating brands and products. The more environmentally efficient packaging will reach retailers
Continue reading »There's a difference between employee engagement and empowerment. The former refers to the degree to which your workers are satisfied and involved in a process, while the latter refers more so to their ability to bootstrap their role within an organization and forge growth for both their careers and their employers. So what drives empowerment?
Continue reading »Any company that's been around for more than 100 years must be doing a few things right. But with the rapid pace of change in today's business environment, the need to adopt more sustainable and efficient processes becomes imperative. General Electric is an example of just such a brand, having recently reported that it will
Continue reading »The ability of managers to empower their workers depends on a wide variety of factors, but nearly all of them route back to leadership skills. Certainly, there are problem employees, and some may be discouraged by low compensation. However, the ability of managers to motivate their workers is a critical skill that organizations can no
Continue reading »A Wisconsin-based paper and materials converting company has been selected to participate in a statewide sustainability and Lean manufacturing initiative. The program is designed to scale back material use, energy consumption, CO2 emissions and unwanted by-products, while also improving product and service value. Resource One International, based in Fox Valley, will participate in the Wisconsin
Continue reading »Stanford Hospital & Clinics in Northern California has gathered a considerable reputation for quality care and service throughout its institutions. Most notably, the hospital has been acknowledged for advanced treatment of complex disorders related to cardiovascular care, cancer treatment, neurosciences, surgery and organ transplants, among others. In its recent ranking of “America's Best Hospitals,” U.S.
Continue reading »Corporate executives and managers are, almost by definition, leaders of their respective organizations. However, a concerning amount of these professionals overlook or fail to grasp the importance of strong leadership skills – much less the need to develop such talent in-house. Being an effective leader requires the articulation of a vision or defining strategy for
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