In August of 2014, we blogged about using the “5S” tool to lean out waste around the house thus demonstrating there are some practical everyday uses to these business process improvement tools. Of course, whenever a spreadsheet is pulled out at our house, the kids scream “nerd alert”.

Let us know what other business process improvement tools you have used around the house.

We will select one of the ideas submitted and send that individual a Starbucks gift card for a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or tea on us! You can email us at blogquestions@brannerconsulting.com or post your example in the comments section.

In addition to 5S, here are two other tools that we have used:

Pugh Matrix

Definition: A Pugh matrix is a scoring matrix that allows you to score each option against a standard criteria. It essentially gives you the opportunity to weigh the strengths and weaknesses of each option against a “Datum” or standard option.

Use around the house: Deciding which new kitchen appliance brand to purchase (Frigidaire, Bosch, Electrolux, GE, or Whirlpool)

FMEA

Definition: FMEA stands for Failure Modes Effects Analysis. It is a tool that assesses risk by evaluating the potential failure mode, the effect of the failure, the cause of the failure, the likely hood of occurrence, and probability that you have existing controls in place to detect the potential failure to prevent it from occurring.

Use around the house: Any “Do it yourself” construction project around the house

Branner Consulting, LLC excels in business process improvement consulting and training. We are problem solvers and business coaches. We perform business process audits and provide thought leadership on implementing or improving a business process improvement program. In addition, we facilitate process improvement workshops and provide one-on-one coaching.