Part IV
Please Note: We are currently working on posting all of the tools that are found on this page. Thank you for being patient with us as we continuously improve!
Tool Overviews
It’s NOT about the Tools (and it’s ALL about the tools)
We have adapted standard Lean methods to meet our needs and adopted best practices from many departments to create the SOLVE toolkit.
The tools help add rigor to our problem solving, offering us ways to engage people in clarifying issues, understanding options, and measuring impact. For these reasons, tools are important.
MORE IMPORTANT than the tools, however, is that we gain support for what we’re trying to do and that we move quickly to TRY things. We want Efficient, Effective, and Elegant problem solving, so select the tools that help you get to a simple (elegant) solution that improves performance (effective) with the least effort (efficient). Feel free to innovate and have a bias for action. We learn by doing, so get out there and do it!
Tools by SOLVE Step
Scope the Opportunity
Define the problem to be solved
Potential Tools:
Boundary Map (SIPOC)
Lean Project Scope Sheet
Organize the Resources
Make a plan and engage the right people
Potential Tools:
Lean Roles
Making the Case for Change
Communication Plan
Problem Solving Session
Lean it!
Apply Lean tools to define improvements
Potential Tools:
Process Maps
8 Wastes (WASTEFUL)
Value Add
Root Cause Analysis
Check Sheet
Pareto Analysis
Error Proofing
5S
Validate Impact
Test to make sure the fixes work
Potential Tools:
Option Evaluation
Pilot (or Test) Plan
Implementation Plan
Resistance Management
Ensure Sustainment
Make it stick
Potential Tools:
Visual Management
Standard Work
Short-Interval Management
Sustainment Checklist
After Action Review (AAR)
The Tool Overviews
There is a vast toolkit to help you execute SOLVE steps. For each tool, a 2-page overview and an example are available in this guide.
