We’re back with Dimension 2 of the Shingo Model! If you missed the post introducing this series and discussing Dimension 1, you can find it here. You can find the free, public domain Shingo Model document here. For the purposes of this review, we will engage in a high level discussion of the supporting principles
Dimension 2: Continuous Process Improvement
This section is where we get into the meat of driving the results we want. We lay the base foundation of our business with cultural enablers that will engage our customers internally and externally. Next we have the opportunity to build in concepts of continuous improvement that will allow our processes not only to exist effectively, but to be scaled and changed as the business scales and changes.
Supporting Principles:
- Focus on Process
- Embrace Scientific Thinking
- Flow and Pull Value
- Assure Quality at the Source
- Seek Perfection
While the first dimension lays the groundwork for people working together effectively, this dimension helps us understand the role that process plays in getting the results we want – consistently. Each of these principles provides an angle into how you might develop and encourage continuous improvement in your team.
For example, let’s look at the principle of focusing on process. This is in direct response to the very human tendency to find someone (a person) to blame. This principle says, no, we no longer look to point the finger at a person. Rather, we will assume that the process is bad first. If we fix the process, we should fix the problem. As you can imagine, this one thing is a gamechanger when it comes to the culture of a team. Toxic cultures are often driven by management or team members who are quick to judge, bend to personal agendas, or generally don’t care.
Activity: Consider these supporting principles. Which one do you find to be the most inspiring or easiest to connect with? How might you put it into practice in your business?