Author name: Brianna Herman

Teamwork plays a vital role in the success of any organization. Specifically, being able to work as a team contributes to the success of Lean Six Sigma projects and continuous improvement efforts. Team performance is about reaching the potential of each individual as well as the team as a whole. Keys to Operating a Successful Lean Six Sigma Project Team When creating the team for the organization’s next project, it is important to provide the team as much clarity as possible about both the project they will be working on and the roles that everyone on the team will be playing. This is especially important in today’s environment in which many project teams are operating virtually. Things to Consider When Defining the Project The project charter is a great tool for introducing the project to the team. SMART criteria ensure that everyone knows the target and how to measure the success of the project. Things to Consider When Defining the Team Team members work more effectively when they know what is expected of them and understand the strengths of their fellow team members. Once this is established, the team can avoid the “too many cooks in the kitchen” syndrome and institute a culture of accountability. Roles and responsibilities should be well-defined and shared with the entire team so that everyone knows who does what. In addition to defining the roles and responsibilities with your team members, it is helpful to establish ground rules about how the team will function: Defining the Team’s Profile Many factors influence team dynamics, such as the skill sets, personalities, and behaviors of team members. It is beneficial to assess challenges, strengths, and opportunities for improvement among the members as well as the team as a whole. The ultimate goal of team building is to enable the members to use their different cognitive and behavioral tendencies and strengths. When developing the team’s profile, consider how each individual: Eight Common Individual Behaviors to Consider When Assessing a Team Type Behaviors Driver Often takes control of situationsConstantly pushing for resultsSometimes individual goals dominate situations Tactician Skilled at planningLinear in thought processEnjoys the role of gatekeeperOften completes deliverables ahead of schedule Analyzer Requires information and data to make decisionsFocuses on detailsOften overanalyzes things Optimist Often positive about thingsUsually expects a favorable outcome Creative Seeks alternative ideasDoes not pay much attention to detailCharacterized by originality and expressiveness Procrastinator Often waits until the last minute to complete deliverables/tasksHesitates in diving in due to fear of failureWorks well under pressure Cautious Risk adverseCalls for caution and is often criticalTentative or restrained Avoider Stays clear of confrontationAvoids difficult or challenging discussions This work in assessing members may feel like an extra step in the team building process, but it is actually a critical part of establishing a solid foundation for the project. A complete assessment can help the team to avoid overlaps and gaps, resulting in unintentional work duplication or catchup efforts, which in turn can cause decreased moral and increased conflict amongst the team. Developing your team’s profile is a proven tool for successfully managing a continuous improvement project. For any questions about the the team building process, or Lean Six Sigma training, please contact Acuity to set up a call.

Organizations big and small, for profit and not, benefit from the continuous improvement tools and techniques of Lean Six Sigma. No matter the challenges an organization faces—from customer service to manufacturing to cost overruns—Lean Six Sigma projects are highly likely to solve those challenges. Ten improvement opportunities that are well-suited for Lean Six Sigma projects are outlined below. Consider the Lean Six Sigma opportunities here (and more!) to accelerate Operational Excellence and reach business goals. Acuity Institute is ready to help with a full-suite of Lean Six Sigma training programs, coaching services, and toolkits that guide projects from start to finish. Contact Acuity Institute today to learn more about how Acuity Institute and Lean Six Sigma drive continuous improvement to achieve business results.