Resolución Práctica de Problemas | PPS

Introduction to Practical Problem Solving

Overview of the Course

• Ana Cruz introduces the course on Practical Problem Solving (PPS), emphasizing its importance in improving work processes.

• The course will cover various problem-solving methodologies, including Six Sigma, and detail the eight steps of practical problem solving.

Defining a Problem

• A problem is defined as a deviation from the standard or a gap between current and desired conditions.

• Problems can be categorized into three types:

• Failure to meet standards (e.g., delivery performance below 100%).

• Meeting existing standards but facing new, higher expectations (e.g., reduced delivery time).

• Inconsistent performance that varies from established standards.

Importance of Practical Problem Solving

Benefits for Organizations

• Practical problem solving fosters a common understanding of what constitutes a problem within organizations, leading to quicker responses.

• A standardized approach minimizes time wasted in discussions, allowing teams to focus on resolving issues effectively.

• Through planning and root cause analysis, organizations can prevent recurring problems, enhancing long-term efficiency.

The PDCA Cycle

Focus on Planning

• The PDCA cycle (Plan, Do, Check, Act) is introduced as a framework for effective problem resolution.

• Emphasizing proper planning reduces overall resolution times; inadequate planning often leads to longer issue resolution periods.

Alternative Problem-Solving Approaches

Common Methods Used Today

• Companies may use simpler methods like "Just Do It" for minor issues that require quick fixes without extensive resources.

• Ford Motor Company employs an eight-discipline process focused on engineering problems; this method is distinct from the eight steps of practical problem solving despite some similarities.

Six Sigma Methodology

• The DMAIC method (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control), rooted in Six Sigma principles, addresses variations and defects effectively.

• For those interested in further learning about Six Sigma practices, Gemba Academy offers additional resources.

Eight Steps of Practical Problem Solving

Introduction to the Steps

• The video concludes with an introduction to the eight steps involved in practical problem solving.

• These steps are closely related to Toyota's business practices and provide detailed guidance on implementing the PDCA cycle effectively.

Understanding the Eight-Step Practical Problem-Solving Method

Current Situation Analysis

• The initial step involves clearly describing the current situation by observing it firsthand to understand the facts. This includes addressing whether issues have been hidden to protect clients, even if temporarily.

• It is crucial to break down large and confusing problems into smaller, specific issues. Observing the actual problem helps in defining its scope more effectively.

Defining Objectives

• After identifying the problem, establishing a challenging yet achievable objective is essential. This goal should help set boundaries for the project's scope and lead towards an ideal state without aiming for perfection immediately. Steps should be taken one at a time.

Root Cause Analysis

• Analyzing root causes requires practicing "genchi genbutsu," which means going to see the problem directly rather than relying on reports. This step focuses on identifying cause points as part of root cause analysis.

• Typically, multiple root causes will emerge during this process, necessitating deeper investigation using tools like the "Five Whys." It's important to note that five is not a magical number but a suggested guideline for reaching root causes effectively.

Action Planning and Implementation

• A thorough root cause analysis will guide necessary actions aimed at eliminating these causes, requiring teams to create plans detailing who will do what and when—this constitutes step five of practical problem-solving methods.

• Step six involves implementing corrective actions quickly and collaboratively while ensuring regular communication about progress throughout the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle, emphasizing perseverance despite challenges faced along the way.

Evaluation and Standardization

• In step seven, known as follow-up phase, evaluating whether corrective actions were effective or merely lucky is critical; this reflection can lead to improvements in future processes. Visual metaphors illustrate how even great ideas can be refined further through evaluation and adaptation.

• Finally, step eight encourages standardizing successful practices using "yokoten," which translates to copying and extending good ideas across areas with unresolved issues while also learning from unsolved problems instead of avoiding them; failure to confront these could result in recurring issues later on. Additionally, setting new improvement goals is vital since claiming there are no problems can itself be problematic.