Ghost Walking? Nah… Waste Walking

Author

Roboyo

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A Waste Walk is like a ghost walk but with a business twist. It’s all about gathering your team, taking a stroll through your processes, and spotting waste so you can eliminate it. This approach is part of the Lean methodology, which focuses on getting rid of inefficiencies to make everything run smoother.

In this blog, Roboyo’s Lean experts have pinpointed the key areas where waste tends to hide.

So how do you walk the Waste Walk?

• Engage Your Team and Teach Them About the 8 Wastes of Lean – First things first, get your team on board. Explain the eight types of waste: defects, overproduction, waiting, non-utilized talent, transportation, inventory, motion, and extra-processing.
• Pick a Process or Area to Explore – Once everyone’s up to speed, choose a process or area to investigate. It doesn’t have to be the worst part of your business—just somewhere you think could use a bit of improvement.
• Take the walk – Now, go on a walk through the chosen area with your team. Keep your eyes peeled for any signs of waste. Be specific about what you find; don’t just slap a waste label on it.
• Create a Waste Action Plan – Document the waste you identify in a Waste Action Plan (see example below). Describe each example in detail so you know exactly what needs fixing.
• Prioritize the Waste – Use an Effort Benefit matrix (a tool to determine where to apply your resources) to prioritize which wastes to tackle first. This way, you can focus on the changes that will have the biggest impact.
• Start Eliminating Waste – With your priorities set, start implementing solutions to get rid of the waste. Keep track of your progress and celebrate the wins!
• Repeat and Improve – Waste Walking isn’t a one-time thing. Keep revisiting different areas and processes to continuously find and eliminate waste.

Why Bother with Waste Walking?

• Boost Efficiency: Cutting out waste means everything runs more smoothly and quickly.
• Engage Your Team: Getting everyone involved fosters a culture of continuous improvement and teamwork.
• Save Money: Less waste means lower costs and a better bottom line.
• Improve Quality: Fewer defects and errors lead to higher quality products and services.
• Delight Customers: Efficient processes and top-notch quality result in happier customers.

APPLY THESE INSIGHTS

At Roboyo, we blend tried-and-true business methodologies with cutting-edge hyperautomation technology to spot and seize improvement opportunities in your workflow.

Our consultants and automation engineers are here to help your business run more efficiently. Book a meeting today and let’s go for a waste walk!

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