From the course: A3 Problem Solving for Continuous Improvement
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Define the problem clearly
From the course: A3 Problem Solving for Continuous Improvement
Define the problem clearly
- One of my mentors used to say a clearly defined and stated problem is a problem half solved. Based on my experience, I believe this to be a very valuable step for solving problems, and this is step one on our A3 worksheet. A problem statement is a clear description of the situation that needs to be addressed or improved, and it's best stated as the gap between the current state and the desired state for your product, service or process. Here's some guidelines to help you write a clear problem statement. First, describe the problem as a gap between what you see happening and what you would like to see happening. For example, let's look at our case study where Out Control Industries, a manufacturing company, has been experiencing discrepancies between physical inventory counts and what their information system is showing. The team, at Out Control, stated the problem as the physical inventory does not match what the system is showing. Here's a tip. Notice how the statement doesn't…