Continuous Improvement and Performance Optimisation

Personal Effectiveness and Self Development October 25, 2025
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Introduction

This course provides participants with the foundational principles and practical tools of Continuous Improvement (CI), focusing on strategies to enhance efficiency, quality, and overall performance. We will explore established methodologies like Lean and Six Sigma, distilling them into actionable steps that can be applied immediately in any work environment. The program emphasizes a structured, cyclical approach to identifying waste, streamlining processes, and sustaining gains over time. Attendees will learn how to embed a mindset of constant seeking and achieving incremental improvements, transforming their teams into engines of excellence and high performance.

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Define Continuous Improvement (CI) and its core philosophies (e.g., Kaizen).
  • Identify and categorize the eight forms of waste (Muda) in any process.
  • Apply the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle for structured improvement.
  • Utilize basic Lean tools such as Value Stream Mapping (VSM) and 5S.
  • Establish effective Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for monitoring process health.
  • Lead small-scale improvement projects within their area of responsibility.
  • Design visual controls and standard work to sustain performance gains.
  • Foster a team culture that proactively embraces and initiates change.

Target Audience

  • Process owners and specialists from any operational area.
  • Team leaders and supervisors driving performance goals.
  • Individuals preparing for or engaging in Lean/Six Sigma projects.
  • Managers seeking to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
  • All employees interested in maximizing productivity and quality.

Methodology

  • Value Stream Mapping group workshop.
  • 5S simulation and audit exercise.
  • PDCA cycle application to a provided case study.
  • Gemba walk (simulated workplace observation) exercise.
  • Group discussions on overcoming resistance to change.
  • Individual development of a small-scale improvement A3 plan.

Personal Impact

  • Increased capability to analyze processes and find efficiencies.
  • Higher job satisfaction from solving problems and reducing frustration.
  • Enhanced reputation as a proactive and results-oriented contributor.
  • Develops a structured, analytical approach to work challenges.
  • Increased confidence in leading small-scale change projects.
  • Better time management through streamlined personal processes.

Organizational Impact

  • Significant reduction in operational costs and waste.
  • Improved quality of products or services and reduced errors.
  • Faster cycle times and better service delivery speeds.
  • Creation of a culture of continuous learning and empowerment.
  • Increased employee engagement and ownership of work processes.
  • Better alignment of daily work with strategic objectives.

Course Outline

Unit 1: The Philosophy and Mindset of Continuous Improvement

  • Establishing the Foundations for Excellence
    • Defining Continuous Improvement (CI) and its strategic value.
    • The core principles of Kaizen (small, continuous change).
    • Introduction to the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle.
    • The role of standardization in maintaining performance.
    • Linking CI efforts to overall organizational strategy.

Unit 2: Identifying and Eliminating Waste (Lean Principles)

  • Focusing on Value Creation
    • Detailed analysis of the eight types of waste (Muda: DOWNTIME).
    • Techniques for observing and quantifying waste in current processes.
    • Introduction to Value Stream Mapping (VSM) to visualize flow.
    • Applying the 5S methodology (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain).
    • Methods for reducing bottlenecks and improving process flow.

Unit 3: Structured Problem Solving and Optimization Tools

  • Applying the PDCA Cycle
    • Phase 1: Plan - Defining the problem, setting targets, and analyzing the cause.
    • Phase 2: Do - Implementing the selected solution on a small scale.
    • Phase 3: Check - Measuring and comparing results against the baseline.
    • Phase 4: Act - Standardizing the change or restarting the cycle.
    • Introduction to A3 reporting for structuring improvement projects.

Unit 4: Measuring and Controlling Performance

  • Sustaining the Gains
    • Establishing meaningful KPIs and performance metrics.
    • Using Control Charts to monitor process stability.
    • Developing visual management tools (e.g., dashboards, huddle boards).
    • Creating and documenting Standard Work for all key processes.
    • Techniques for auditing and ensuring compliance to new standards.

Unit 5: Leading a CI Culture

  • Engaging Teams and Driving Change
    • Strategies for building employee ownership of CI initiatives.
    • Overcoming resistance to change and fear of failure.
    • The importance of leadership role-modeling CI behavior.
    • Techniques for facilitating effective improvement meetings (huddles).
    • Recognizing and rewarding successful improvement efforts.

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