Quality and Framework of Purposeful Action
What is the relationship between Quality Improvement and the 12 steps of Purposeful Action?
Which of the 12 steps are most applicable to Quality Improvement and Kaizen?
For reference please visit: http://www.youtube.com/purposefulaction
Let’s look at the similarities for the DMAIC process of improvement given to us from the Six Sigma world. Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control. It would seem that Steps 1, 2 and 3 can be compared to the Define, Measure and Analyze steps of the DMAIC process. In the Define, we are giving definition to and scoping our problem or need for quality improvement. Step 1 of the 12 steps is where we develop our vision and lay the ground work for our action.
The Measure step is when we collect data form the current process for analysis and then we Analyze the collected data to create useful information. Step 2 is where we check our vision against reality for feasibility and then we create and commit our plan in step 3.
The Improvement step involves taking the information produced by the Analysis phase and putting into action the corrections needed to improve the quality for the process in question. This one step is analogous to steps 4 through 9 of the 12-steps by essentially taking the information, devising the plan, staffing and executing the improvement.
The Control step of the DMAIC roadmap is inclusive of steps 10-12 where we evaluate and make adjustments as needed. Also recognition is given to a successfully completed task.
As for Kaizen activities, I would think all steps are applicable. These are quick actions taken by teams or individuals to improve process quality with essentially the same steps just described.
This is interesting, Chris…
PC
Thanks Royy I think? But ya, I’d say it is the initial step leading towards quality improvement as there is no product/service/plan yet till the first two phases are complete and it is never too soon to evaluate what’s already there.
-jiMy
Jimmy I have to say you simply stated the core point of the quality improvement and 12 steps of purposeful action.
Do you agree that assessment step is a initiating step for quality improvement?
The framework for purposeful action dissects action into twelve steps which occur in three phases [Masters of Game].
I look at the 12 steps in the three phases as a process. It is well written outline and a guide for developing a product or service. Within the 12 steps there are opportunities for to correct the product/service according to customers need. Meeting customers need add value to a product/service. Now we know that value cannot be defined without quality. Therefore, quality improvement increases the value of product or services. Quality improvement is a vital part of the 12 steps of purposeful action.
In Phase II action is performed. The phase III gives the opportunities to assess and re-evaluate the action. So it is clear that phase III steps most applicable for quality improvement.
The 12 steps provide a process that thoroughly examines everything about a product/service and the related goals & actions which brings about recognition of the flaws or shortcomings - this helps improve strategy & refines goals/objectives to where the quality can be improved.
I believe Phase III of the 12 steps is crucial to Quality improvement as it deals with what’s already there and how to make necessary changes and implement them effectively.
In my opinion true quality of any product or service contains the 12 steps within it.
If Kaizen is synonymous with “continuous improvement” I would say that the renewal stage is the most applicable to Kaizen.