Dozuki > Case Studies > Implementing Continuous Improvement for Streamlined Processes and Engaged Employees

Implementing Continuous Improvement for Streamlined Processes and Engaged Employees

Technology Category

Cybersecurity & Privacy - Identity & Authentication Management
Sensors - Temperature Sensors

Applicable Industries

Recycling & Waste Management

Applicable Functions

Quality Assurance

Use Cases

Predictive Waste Reduction
Time Sensitive Networking

Services

Testing & Certification
Training

About The Customer

The customer in this case study is the Dover Corporation, a diversified global manufacturer. The company has been implementing continuous improvement and quality management programs around the world, under the guidance of Maneesh Bhatnagar, the Director of Quality & Continuous Improvement. The company has been focusing on creating a work environment that promotes problem-solving, ensuring that employees are always finding ways to improve and deliver more value to customers and the company. The company has been successful in implementing continuous improvement initiatives, creating a culture that recognizes opportunities and implements improvements into the day-to-day operations.

The Challenge

Companies, regardless of their size, often struggle with keeping their employees motivated towards shared goals. The challenge lies in creating a culture where teams are invested in company goals and are constantly working towards streamlining processes. The lack of a problem-solving culture can lead to disengaged employees, inefficient workflows, and increased waste and rework. This can ultimately impact the bottom line, reducing the value delivered to customers. Additionally, many companies have a wealth of processes and information locked in tribal knowledge, which is not transferable and cannot be improved upon. This presents a major risk, as without a standard, there is no benchmark to improve upon.

The Solution

The solution lies in implementing continuous improvement, or Kaizen, a method that promotes a problem-solving culture and respects its people. This involves creating guidelines for eliminating waste and non-value add activities. The first step is to document existing processes and standards, breaking down each process step as much as possible and clearly identifying the actions involved. This sets teams up for success with continuous improvement. The next step is to gather feedback from employees, even those who aren’t familiar with the process, as they can provide fresh perspectives to identify opportunities for improvement. Once teams have decided on a new process, it’s important to communicate with all impacted employees and make necessary modifications to accommodate the improvements. Consistency is paramount in sharing improved processes to prevent them from getting lost in translation.

Operational Impact

The implementation of continuous improvement has resulted in a culture where teams are invested in company goals and are constantly working towards streamlining processes. This has led to higher employee engagement, reduced errors, and numerous opportunities for improvement. The problem-solving culture has ensured that employees are always finding ways to improve, delivering more value to customers and the company. The culture of continuous improvement has become second nature, with teams finding opportunities in even the most unexpected places. This has produced an environment that fosters innovation and a sense of ownership and value among individuals, creating a culture focused on creating results.

Quantitative Benefit

Reduced operational overhead by creating more efficient workflows
Reduced project costs by duplicating best known practices across teams, creating higher levels of consistency, reducing waste, and preventing rework
Improved project forecasting efforts by maintaining uptime