The Implementation phase of a process improvement project builds on the Assessments that have already been performed.
- Is there a clear understanding of how the processes in question are really functioning today?
- Is there agreement on what aspects of the process need to be changed?
- Is there a clear picture of what the desired state of the improved processes will look like?
Migration Plan
The Migration Plan is the practical blueprint for implementation. It delineates and prioritizes how to go from the Current to the Desired State.
To develop a realistic Migration Plan to achieve the desired goals, PPI works with clients to:
- Identify gaps
- Determine tasks
- Allocate resources
- Develop timelines
- Define Critical Success Factors
- Recognize dependencies
Migration planning may be performed in several iterations, to accommodate short-term "quick fix" improvements as well as more complicated long-term improvements.
Implementation
The complexity of the changes and the nature of the organization are key factors in determining how the implementation will actually be performed. The details are therefore different for every situation. To ensure that implementation is successful, PPI emphasizes the following:
- Supporting the redesigned business processes with appropriate enabling IT
- Using capability tests to ensure the practicality of desired changes, e.g.
turning non-value-added activities into value-added ones
- Connecting Process Improvements with Performance Management processes
- Developing revised performance metrics
(including both leading and lagging indicators) to increase accountability and results
- Utilizing multiple communication channels and change tools to increase buy-in
and turn commitment into internalization
Good communication and effective
change management are critical to the success of any improvement implementation.
