Methodologies

methodologies

Methodologies for Sustainable Results

Organizations have been attempting to create a culture of excellence for years, but very few actually accomplish this goal. Why is this?

Based on over two decades of experience, we believe it comes down to one simple element – results.  Results are what our leaders, managers, and associates are asked to measure and deliver.

The downfalls of a results-focused approach

Focusing exclusively on results disregards the learning and behavior that produces those results. When the means are ignored and results are achieved no matter the cost, short cuts are taken, firefighting becomes the norm, and people burn out.  Gains inevitably become unsustainable. This results-at-any-cost approach catches up with every organization because there is always a settlement between results and behavior.

We coach organizations to effectively improve the drivers of sustainable results – work that can only be done by those closest to the task (work process improvement) and work that must be done by management (value stream improvement). It’s not about employing the right tools; it’s really about creating an environment to encourage ideal behavior!

Our approach includes:

  1. Engaging people: leaders, managers, and associates
  2. Aligning behavior and thinking to principles
  3. Employing a learn-do-teach approach to develop in-house capability
  4. Achieving quick wins to build interest
  5. Developing appropriate core systems and tools
  6. Applying Lean, Six Sigma, and Theory of Constraints as needed
  7. Using visuals, measurements, and team dynamics to reinforce great behavior
  8. Leveraging technology and information systems to sustain positive gains

This approach has proven successful across many industries and disciplines including:

  • Service Industries (Insurance, Banking, Retail)
  • Manufacturing (Discrete, Plastics, Aerospace, Food & Beverage)
  • Supply Chain/Logistics
  • Institutional Research
  • Agriculture
  • Support Functions (Finance, Purchasing, HR, IT, etc.)
  • Information Technology for Healthcare (EMR, Practice Management)