Setting the right type of New Year’s resolutions is a great way to plan the New Year. But setting resolutions is only the first part. If you are serious about keeping your resolutions there is something you can do about it.
The solution is to have a process that you follow when you need to make a change or solve a problem; A process that will ensure you plan, test and incorporate feedback before you commit to implementation.
A popular tool for doing just this is the Plan-Do-Check-Act Cycle. This is often referred to as the Deming Cycle or the Deming Wheel after its proponent, W Edwards Deming. A closed loop system, it emphasizes four repetitive steps:
First, start with an idea and create a PLAN to make it happen.
Then, DO adhere to the plan, and take corrective action when necessary.
Next, analyze and CHECK progress toward your goal and identify the root causes of obstacles.
Finally, take appropriate ACTion. If the outcome matches expectations, then standardize the process to maintain the gains. If the results were disappointing, then modify the process to eliminate the root cause of remaining problems. In either case, repeat the process starting again with PLAN.
While these steps appear in a linear sequence, when implemented the phases are best thought of as concurrent processes that can continually be improved. This is the key to seeing your resolution through to the end.
Keeping your resolution isn't easy but, following the PDCA cycle will yield better results and sustained improvements. Taking the time to plan, check, and act will pay dividends.
Stay connect to A Lean Journey on our Facebook page or LinkedIn group.
Follow me on Twitter or connect with me on Linkedin.
You can also subscribe to this feed or email to stay updated on all posts.
Excellent post, Tim. I think that most people who successfully reach their goals follow the PDCA even if they never heard of it. They are good at follow up and making the necessary adjustments. This and other aspects of Lean Manufacturing can be commons sense and may not look all that difficult. The hard part is to have the perseverance to stick with it even when priorities shift and there are other distractions. The PDCA itself will help you keep on track though as you follow up on a regular basis.....
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing.
Chris