PDM - A3 Problem Solving

The A3 problem-solving approach has been credited as being the key element of the Toyota Production System. The A3 format is recognized as a means to visualize problems, countermeasures and results. However, the true power of the A3 approach is its ability to build consensus during the problem-solving process, as wells as its effectiveness in developing problem-solving skills. The A3 methodology goes a long way in defining the new role of managers, supervisors and other support personnel within a lean organization. In this interactive workshop learn about the roles and responsibilities of A3 owners and A3 coaches and how you can apply this management technique in your own environment.

About the PDM

Many organizations have realized significant improvements through the adoption of pull systems, creation of flow, integration of standard work and other Lean methodologies. While these efforts have had measurable impact the true power of Lean has yet to be achieved in most transformations. To achieve true success we need to change the way our people approach, address and resolve the problems the problems being faced. This requires the development of “thinking problem solvers.” Come to the April PDM if your organization is plagued with:

Significant resistance when implementing solutions to problems.
The adoption of superficial or ineffective solutions to resolve problems.
A non-structured approach to problem solving (i.e. everybody trying to solve problems their own way).

These and other symptoms of ineffective problem solving are being minimized by companies using the A3 problem solving approach. Very visual and hands-on, A3 thinking is a proven step-by-step methodology which engages the problem solver, their supervisor, and those affected by the problem.

In this session you will:

Receive an overview of the features of the A3 Management and Problem Solving Process.
Gain an understanding of how A3 coaching is different from traditional coaching.
Learn the benefits of the A3 approach and how it can be used to coach people through the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) process.

About the speaker:

Mike Osterling’s mission is to guide and support organizations on their Lean journey. With more than 25 years of leadership experience in the US, Mexico and Europe, he has played a pivotal role in leading Lean transformations across a broad range of industries including manufacturing, service, oil production, pharmaceuticals and construction. Prior to consulting, Mike worked at Square D Company for 18 years and played a key role in the Lean transformation at several their plants. In 1999 he helped found San Diego State University’s Lean Enterprise Certificate Program and continues to teach in that program as well as at UCSD.

He has taught A3, Lean Thinking, Value Stream Mapping and been involved in hundreds of kaizen events in a variety of industries to improve both manufacturing and non-manufacturing processes. An independent consultant for the last ten years, Mike has supported dozens of organizations on their lean transformation journey.

Fluent in Spanish, Mike earned his MBA in International Business from SDSU and holds a BS in Production and Operations Management. He is a Certified Trainer for the Implementation of Lean Manufacturing (University of Kentucky), is CPIM certified,and is a Six Sigma Black Belt.

He co-authored the “how-to” book The Kaizen Event Planner: Achieving Rapid Improvement in Office, Service and Technical Environments, and co-developed Metrics-Based Process Mapping: An Excel-Based Solution.

Learn more at www.mosterling.com or contact Mike directly at mike@mosterling.com.