Understanding the importance of continuous improvement and being lean

It's no secret that there is always room for improvement in every workplace. But how do we ensure that it's a continual process? And what are the steps workplaces can take to kick start continuous improvement?

Episode 31 of the Go1 podcast sees Go1's Craig Hamill and Head of On-Demand & Digital at Process Management International, Lauren Miles, join forces to take a deep dive into the topic of continuous improvement in the workplace.

Check out some highlights from their discussion below.

Both a journey and an outcome

Many of us will have heard the saying, "it's about the journey, not the destination" but for continuous improvement in the workplace, it's actually both. In this section of the podcast, Lauren explores this idea further and discusses the value of a 'repeatable method' so that the improvement in the workplace isn't just a one hit wonder.

She then continues by mentioning that there are two very important perspectives to consider when it comes to effective continuous improvement: the organisation and the individual.

Stepping off the operational rollercoaster

Whether we're prepared to admit it or not, it can be so easy to become swept up in the incredibly fast pace of the modern workforce. Craig takes a moment to encourage us to step off what he calls, 'the operational rollercoaster' and how by taking the time to go through the refinement of processes, our workplaces can be better, faster and stronger, and therefore, provide a great deal of business value.

Developing a common language

In this section of the podcast, Lauren explains that the development of a common language is absolutely essential when it comes to supporting a shared vision for improvement within the workplace. She then goes on to explain the performance improvement concepts of Lean and Six Sigma and how by combining the two, you can improve efficiency as well as effectiveness.

If you haven't already, you can listen to the full podcast here to learn more.

Want to hear more? Browse the full Learning with Go1 podcast library on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or Spotify to help expand your knowledge of all things L&D. And hear how other organisations are navigating through this ever-evolving landscape.