Ever since I was a kid, I’ve had a strong interest in science. It didn’t matter if it was actual science, such as medicine, or science fiction such as Star Wars. If it involved science, I adored it. After spending time in a research lab, I became enamored with microbiology and molecular biology.
This interest followed me from high school into college and into my career as a molecular biologist. While much of science is based on memorization (how to spell Escherichia coli or the number of molecules in a mole of table salt), one also learns how to conduct research.
One of the primary procedures involved in research is the scientific method (SM). Through the use of observation, testing, and analysis, one is able to prove or disprove a hypothesis (theory) about how something works.
In a recent article in Quality Progress (QP) Matthew Barsalou, a Master Black Belt with BorgWarner Turbo Systems Engineering GmbH, recommended the use of the SM in process improvement (PI), especially as it relates to root cause analysis. By developing a hypothesis of the cause(s) of a problem, the PI team can begin to narrow the scope of their investigation. The actions involved can include empirical (making observations, collecting data, and testing the hypothesis) and conceptual (development of the hypothesis, prediction of the results if the hypothesis is true).
By using induction and deduction to develop, test, and prove or disprove a hypothesis, the PI team can answer difficult root cause questions and aid in the development of corrective actions and improvements. While not all PI team members are scientists, the scientific method is a great tool for all PI teams to utilize.
Be sure to check out Matthew’s article. It’s worth the read!
How are you helping your employees to work smarter by reducing the amount of time they spend on non-productive activities and correcting errors? If your business processes need a “check-up,” please email me at michael@leadingchangeforgood.com! I’d love to help you get back to a healthy, productive workplace.
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