A Visual Guide to Using the CEDAC Problem Solving Method

Discover the power of the CEDAC problem-solving method in this comprehensive visual guide. Learn how to effectively use Cause-and-Effect Diagram Adding Cards (CEDAC) to identify, categorize, and address critical organizational problems. CEDAC enhances traditional fishbone diagrams with color-coded cards, making it a compelling tool for collaborative root cause analysis and brainstorming. This guide covers each step of the CEDAC process, from identifying problems and selecting teams to creating visual diagrams and conducting direct observations at the Gemba. Perfect for improvement teams looking to incorporate CEDAC into the A3/DMAIC structure and achieve continuous, systematic improvement.

continuous improvementJames BussellSeptember 6, 2024Problem solvingComment

Using The Red Card/Green Card Method to Develop Lean Leaders

During our Lean Journey at Medtronic Surgical Products in Jacksonville, we developed a robust process to modify and improve individual behaviors. We named this method Red Card/Green Card and found it to be highly effective. I previously discussed the Red Card/Green Card method in my book, Anatomy of a Lean Leader, and will provide a summary below

The Best Front-Line Improvement Ideas Come from Front-line Workers

t’s a prevalent practice among “knowledge workers,” including senior leaders, managers, engineers, sales, and marketing professionals, to initiate improvement initiatives and establish standardized processes for production without directly engaging with the frontline operators at the Gemba – where the work is done.

James BussellJuly 22, 2024Comment

Using the ECRS Method to Improve Processes in the Star Wars Universe—July the 4th be with You!

Celebrate July 4th with an overview of how ECRS can be a game changer in the Star Wars universe!

James BussellJuly 4, 2024Comment

Kramer and Newman’s Michigan Bottle Deposit Scam and SMART Goal Statements

Let’s explore the SMART approach to project goal setting by analyzing Kramer and Newman’s “Michigan Bottle Deposit Scam” on Seinfeld.

problem solvingJames BussellJuly 2, 2024seinfeld, Lean Thinking, SMARTComment

Clip of 6S Numbers Game from Introduction to 6S Workplace Organization Workshop on May 31, 2024

Check out this clip of the “6S Numbers Game” presented during the Jacksonville Lean Consortium's (Lean Jax) Introduction to 6S Workplace Organization Virtual Workshop on May 31, 2024.

training, continuous improvementJames BussellJune 18, 2024trainingComment

The Mamba Mentality in 11 Quotes

The "Mamba Mentality" embodies the mindset exemplified by NBA legend Kobe Bryant, inspiring individuals across diverse fields to strive for continuous improvement.

continuous improvementJames BussellJune 11, 2024Motivational quotesComment

My 2024 Visual Glossary of Lean Thinking’s Japanese Terminology

A visual glossary of Japanese terminology that all lean practitioners should know.

Start with the Basics

This quote always makes me chuckle because it’s so true. Inevitably, the companies Dr. Shingo is criticizing consistently fail to achieve their desired results and soon abandon their Lean initiatives. I see it all the time.

TPS and lean thinking are not a set of tools. They are organization-wide strategies that promote systems thinking, anchored in the pillars of continuous improvement and respect for people. Their sum is far greater than their individual parts.

Before any real improvements can be made, companies need to create and maintain stability—processes that are capable of delivering consistent value everyday. Additionally, process instability makes it very difficult to get employees to believe that the company respects their time and contributions.

James BussellJune 3, 2024Comment

Lean Jax's Lean Visual Glossary for Service Organizations

James BussellMay 22, 2024Comment

Recommended Lean Transformation Objectives and Actions for First Year

For executive leaders committed to begin leveraging (or revitalizing) lean as their organization's long-term continuous improvement strategy and system, this is our recommended sequence of objectives and actions to execute during the first 12 months.

James BussellMay 7, 2024Comment