Continuous Improvement
An Introduction to Lean Six Sigma
For years many companies have struggled with the dilemma of which improvement program to use: Lean or Six Sigma. While some continue to debate the issue, others have come to realize that Lean and Six Sigma can work well together to improve processes, increase quality and drive out costs.
Theory of Constraints
A system is only as strong as its weakest link. Generally, Lean tools that teach us how to create flow ignore this. We are taught to balance the line to takt time and miraculously flow will occur. How is that working out for you? Many systems have bottlenecks (constraints). These can frequently stop Lean flow tactics dead in their tracks. Understanding how to exploit constraints rather than surrendering to them is what Theory of Constraints is all about. This program will show those already trained in Lean how to blend Lean, Six Sigma and Theory of Constraints into the most powerful continuous improvement model ever created.
Team Facilitation
As organizations continue to function within team structures, it is important for those who serve as team leaders to have the necessary skills to facilitate teams effectively. In this program, participants will gain the knowledge and skills to set meeting agendas that drive team meetings forward and assure that all team members actively participate. Participants will learn to plan for effective team actions and encourage team members to communicate clearly and directly.
Statistical Process Control (SPC)
Participants will gain basic training regarding the use of statistical methods in order to assure consistent quality of a manufactured product or service.
Lean Problem Solving
Problems exist in all organizations. In the fast-paced and high-stress levels of today’s professional environments, the ability to solve problems quickly and effectively is an essential skill. In this program, participants will learn a simple but proven step-by-step approach for attacking and solving problems. Within the time-honored Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) framework, participants will learn how to develop a standardized, yet flexible process that integrates easily into any current company format.
To prepare for this program, participants will be asked to bring a simple, real-life problem to work on as they utilize the practical tools and techniques of PDCA in a series of hands-on exercise.
Lean Office
Lean Office is an initiative that utilizes Value Stream Mapping, workplace teams and office-based Kaizen projects to greatly shorten business process lead times and drastically reduce wastes commonly found within office functions. This program is designed to provide participants with the knowledge to facilitate the leadership and implementation of Lean Office and to build a culture of continuous improvement.
Champions Training
You will learn to become an effective Champion and/or Team Leader so that you can effectively support your continuous improvement initiatives. Understand the evolution of the continuous improvement approaches and how the various tools and techniques fit together.
Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt Training and Certification
Black Belts are the elite problem solvers for organizations. The Master Black Belt designation is the highest order of this respected practice. Master Black Belts are generally full-time agents for continuous improvement, facilitators, teachers and journeyman practitioners of Lean and Six Sigma.
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Training and Certification
Kent State’s Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Training and Certification is a focused, intense program for continuous improvement change agents. These change agents will gain an understanding of, and skills in, the in-depth concepts, tools and techniques of Lean and Six Sigma.
Standardized Work and Continuous Flow
Standardized Work is essential to achieving and sustaining Lean processes. Standardized Work is a people focused tool designed to document current best practices in order to establish a repeatable and predictable baseline for continual improvement.