A Process review by SofemaOnline (www.sofemaonline.com) 

Background 

Continuous improvement (CI) is an ongoing effort aimed at delivering improvements to the existing business process. It is important to note that CI is not just a “top-down” approach. In fact, CI works best in an environment of a positive culture prepared to accept change.

When we talk about Continuous Improvements, we are typically emphasizing a positive change in the area of:

a) Physical Infrastructure
b) Competence Improvement of personnel
c) More Effective Use of Management Reporting Mechanisms
d) Organisational Structural Developments (Efficiency)

What is a Culture of Improvement?

A Culture of Improvement enables the business to grow and gain a larger share of the available market.

When the employees are both fully engaged with the organisation and as individuals are encouraged to grow competence and continue to learn, we create an atmosphere that is open to positive improvement.

Moreover If we can assure good communication plus information sharing throughout the business, together with an equitable assessment and recognition process, we can really achieve our organizational goals.

How can we develop a Culture of Continuous Improvement in our Organization? 

a) Consider that continuous improvement becomes a “CORE VALUE” within the organization
b) Understand that CI should be reflected in individuals’ attitude towards the business
c) Encourage employee “buy-in” so that they feel engaged
d) Use Empowerment, Involvement and Employee Contribution to drive the business forward, including continuous learning. Strive for a continuing advancement in competency & provide opportunities for group members to strengthen those skills which enable CI
e) Develop an Organisation/Employee shared vision
f) Maintain Optimum Competence, ensure strong training, & measure its effectiveness
g) Create a positive atmosphere within the organisation. All expectations should be communicated clearly and regularly in order to develop a culture of CI

Motivating Employees Leads to Full Engagement

It is important to recognize effort and not only outcomes; why is this? Well, essentially, we need to recognise that even in the event that a proposal to improve that is ultimately unsuccessful should still be recognized for the willingness of the employee to positively engage with the “Improvement Mechanism” and that we do in fact show acknowledgement for the effort and not only the outcome.

A Note on Recognition

Recognition and acknowledgement of efforts to improve ultimately becomes more effective than a rewards-based system. Often a culture of rewards can lead to comparisons, even envy, and can impact team spirit in a negative way.

Driving a Positive Outcome Requires

A strategic approach, if correctly implemented, can help companies to improve and increase the reliability of the business process.

a) An organisational structure which complements and supports our people
b) To be able to deliver and “measure” knowledge across the business
c) Ensure effective use of technology
d) Optimise Roles, and Responsibilities to work in “harmony.”

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