An approach to improving performance and enabling innovation by systematically removing waste and providing value to customers. Continuous improvement methodologies focus on evaluating and improving processes using Lean tools to provide optimal outcomes. The method we typically use is called Plan-Do-Check-Act or PDAC, and it is described as follows:
- Plan: Identify, define and analyze the problem
- Do: Develop & test potential solutions
- Check: Measure the effectiveness of the solutions
- Act: Fully implement the solution & continue to monitor the results
How Can We Help You?
The Finance Division Continuous Improvement initiative was launched in 2016 to support the division’s goal to “ensure and provide efficient and safe daily operations” and “sound financial management”. Currently, Continuous Improvement services consist of:
Training:
Providing formal training on Continuous Improvement methods and tools on a semester basis. Currently training is offered via Zoom, and attendance is limited to 60 people per class. To learn more about the following training classes and to register for classes, please visit the IU Human Resources Organizational Development training website at: https://hr.iu.edu/events/index.php
- Introduction to Lean Process Improvement
- Lean Methodology
- Lean Tools
- Identifying Lean Leaders
- Lean Leadership Development
Please Contact Us if you would like more information.
Project Support:
Providing project leadership, support and guidance for project sponsors at the department or RC level. If you would like more information on how we can support your project, please Contact Us.
Just Do It / Just Stop It Support:
Assistance with evaluating and implementing small improvements that are within your area of control. Often referred to as “Just Do It” or “Just Stop It”, these small changes can have big results. When evaluating small changes, it’s helpful to consider the following questions:
- What problem do you want to address?
- What improvement are you considering?
- What are your concerns if the problem is not improved?
- What is the benefit of the improvement?
If you would like guidance on making small, impactful changes, please Contact Us.
Continuous Improvement Committee:
Advising and supporting a committee of Continuous Improvement Champions who work on projects that will have institutional impact. Our seventh phase of projects began in August 2023. If you are interested in being part of our Continuous Improvement Committee, please Contact Us.
You can also find out more information at the following:
What is Our Mission?
Support IU’s mission by continually improving services in support of those we serve. We will do so by promoting the evolution and growth of Finance division staff as Lean Leaders engaged in the pursuit of continuous improvement.
What Is Our Vision?
Successfully build a sustainable Continuous Improvement Office in the Finance organization that provides project leadership, guidance, training and support for University departments. Sustainable means:
- Staff are engaged and aspire to continuously improving themselves and the University.
- Staff are well-trained and knowledgeable in the ways to apply Lean methodology.
- Staff collaborate within and outside of the Finance organization to achieve their objectives.
- The office is able to work on many projects simultaneously.
- There is a long and continuously growing list of projects to work on.
