CRITICAL FACTORS FOR SUSTAINABLE KAIZEN EVENTS -PEOPLE, PROCESS AND TECHNOLOGY

摘要

Kaizen events are extensively used i n a lean t r a n s f o r m a t i o n a s a c a t a l y s t f o r c o n t i n u o u s improvement. These events help in implementing work cells, reducing setup activities or streamlining the processes. The actions that are implemented from these events are characterized as incremental and constant changes. In a typical Kaizen event, commonly called as a Kaizen blitz, an area is identified and a crossfunctional team conducts the "Gemba walks" and value s t r e a m mapping t o i d e n t i f y t h e k e y K a i z e n opportunities. In this research, we investigate the effectiveness of using the DMAIC framework (commonly used in Lean Six Sigma projects) for Kaizen events. In addition, we also examine the applicability of Discrete Event Simulation (DES) modeling in Kaizen events for identifying the Kaizen bursts and also to perform the "what-if' analysis prior to implementing the action items. One of the key benefits of using DES models in a Kaizen event is to study the implications of the local changes (in the Kaizen area) might have an adverse effect on the performance of various other areas or processes. The last part of this research focuses on studying the impact of employee engagement on the sustaining the actions implemented from a Kaizen event. Hence, this research defines the role of people, process and technology in conducting a successful Kaizen event.