DPMG Institute

Problem Solving is the foundation of the Lean Thinking. Continually improving requires continually solving problems - whether these are technical or recurring day-to-day problems. As a Lean tool, A3 reporting addresses the root causes of problems that arise every day at work. When used properly, the PDCA-A3 process dramatically increases the probability of success. Leading companies, such as Toyota, use the PDCA-A3 report to train their employees in a proven and structured problem-solving approach. This 5 session, four 4-hour per session Instructor-led online course introduces participants to problem-solving frameworks, tools and techniques, and explores their practical application in a work environment. 

The training is design to:

Provide participants with the understanding and the means for applying the A3 process to drive work place improvements. Participants will develop problem-solving skills to reinforce the application of the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) methodology through practical application. 

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Learn to identify, classify and define problems
• Be able to analyze and prioritize problems, symptoms and root causes
• Match the right problem-solving process to the problem
• Use a variety of proven problem-solving models, tools and techniques
• “Frame” a problem to gain support and buy in from others in the organization.
• Understand how the A3 process works (PDCA).
• Create an A3 problem report format to “tell the story” of the problem and to guide and structure the problem solving activity.
• Use root cause analysis tools
• Develop countermeasures
• Develop implementation plans     

Course Outline/Components

1. Lean Overview
2. Introduction  To PDCA and A3 Reports
3. PDCA – 8 Steps To Problem Solving And A3 Reporting
   • Problem Statement
   • Casus and Effect Analysis
   • Roost Causes and Countermeasures
   • Action Plan
   • Results and Follow-up
   • Standardize & Train
   • Recognize/Share Achievement