six sigma in human resources case study

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International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management

ISSN : 1741-0401

Article publication date: 21 September 2010

The case study aims to illustrate the application of Lean Six Sigma into the human resource (HR) function of a service industry corporation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws on process information and primary data from a real project.

The study describes improvements in the HR management attributable to Lean Six Sigma: decrease of employees' voluntary turnover and increase in employees' satisfaction.

Originality/value

Although being extremely successful in the last two decades in the manufacturing sector, the application of Lean Six Sigma to the service industry in general, and HR management in particular, has been a controversial topic: this study illustrates how its application can reduce employees' voluntary turnover rate and increase their satisfaction, hence increasing the return on investment of human capital.

• Lean production
• Human resource management
• Employees turnover
• Service industries

Laureani, A. and Antony, J. (2010), "Reducing employees' turnover in transactional services: a Lean Six Sigma case study", International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management , Vol. 59 No. 7, pp. 688-700. https://doi.org/10.1108/17410401011075666

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Copyright © 2010, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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Lean Six Sigma For HR: Improving Talent Acquisition

While created in manufacturing, Lean Six Sigma improves virtually any system in any department because it focuses on eliminating process defects and mistakes. One business department that increasingly puts process improvement to use is human resources, where leaders can apply Lean and Six Sigma principles to everything from creating compensation systems to hiring processes and employee orientation.

As pointed out in an interview with a vice president for human resources, elements of Lean and Six Sigma can help HR leadership reduce waste, understand employees better and find solutions to complex HR problems such as developing a streamlined employee onboarding process.

HR leaders also can implement Lean and Six Sigma strategies to improve their success rate in recruiting and retaining talented employees.

Challenges With Talent Acquisition

HR departments face challenges when trying to attract talented people to their company. The advantage typically goes to the talented person – they will have plenty of offers to choose from, and can carefully weigh one offer against another.

HR departments can benefit by using Lean to get a streamlined operation into place that cuts wasteful, unnecessary steps while also improving talent acquisition efforts, according to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) .

Peter Peterka, CEO of training company Global Six Sigma, told SHRM that Lean can help companies in many areas. They include:

• Creating a qualification template that identifies the traits of ideal candidates for certain teams and positions
• Creating detailed job descriptions intended to attract the right candidates
• Forming a staff retention strategy to keep talent onboard
• Provide training to foster development in talented staff members

Waste in the Talent Acquisition Process

Slow response time to applicants can cost companies top talent when it comes to recruiting. One of the best uses of Six Sigma in HR is to carefully evaluate the current process and determine what needs to get eliminated.

Typical problems revolve around waiting for feedback from hiring managers on potential hires. There also can be considerable delays as companies wait for final approval of job offers.

Evaluating the process using Lean can lead to ways to address these issues, according to SHRM, including making sure everyone involved understands their responsibilities and their part in meeting deadlines.

Much of that has to do with keeping everyone involved engaged in the process. To reach that point, an HR project team can create a flowchart or spaghetti chart that visually depicts the talent acquisition process from beginning to end. Only then can errors, mistakes and roadblocks get corrected.

Six Sigma and HR Analytics

Six Sigma is, at its core, a data-driven methodology. The advanced technology that has led to more detailed and efficient data analysis has made the application of Six Sigma even more powerful than in the past.

In a detailed look at how to apply the DMAIC framework for process improvement using advanced analytics, HR Analytics argues that it can lead to more accurate details in assessing a system and ultimately to better changes in HR departments.

Those looking to work in HR might also want to focus on Lean. A recent study from the global executive search and recruiting firm The Avery Point Group found that more companies than ever want people with Lean skills for work in HR and other departments.

“I can’t think of any company that claims to be world class that is not utilizing some form of continuous improvement approach,” Tim Noble, managing principal of The Avery Point Group, said in a release about the report. “World-class status is a constantly moving target defined by both your customers and your competitors. Without a continuous improvement approach, you’re not even treading water in today’s highly competitive global economy.”

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Lean Six Sigma Case Studies

Welcome to the Lean Six Sigma Academy’s Case Studies section! Here, you will find a collection of real-world examples of how companies have successfully implemented the Lean Six Sigma methodology to improve their business operations. Each case study includes an overview of the business challenge that was faced, the approach that was taken, the results that were achieved and feedback from the client on their experience. These case studies showcase the wide range of industries and organizations that have benefited from Lean Six Sigma, and serve as inspiration and guidance for those looking to implement the methodology in their own business. 

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Six Sigma Case Study: Everything You Need to Know

Explore the field of Six Sigma Case Studies in our comprehensive blog. From defining the methodology to real-world applications, our 'Six Sigma Case Study: Everything You Need to Know' blog sheds light on this powerful problem-solving tool. Uncover success stories and learn how Six Sigma can drive efficiency and quality improvements in various industries.

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By analysing such case studies, one can gain insights into the successful application of Six Sigma in various industries and understand its impact on process improvement. Read this blog on Six Sigma Case Study to learn how real-world businesses have achieved remarkable process improvement and cost savings. 

Table of Contents  

1) Understanding Six Sigma Methodology 

2) Six Sigma Case Study 

a) Improving customer service 

b) Improving delivery efficiency 

3) Conclusion 

Understanding Six Sigma Methodology

By applying statistical analysis and data-driven decision-making, Six Sigma helps organisations identify the root cause of problems and implement effective solutions. It emphasises the importance of process standardisation, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction. With its focus on rigorous measurement and analysis, Six Sigma enables organisations to drive efficiency, reduce waste, and deliver exceptional products and services. The methodology follows a step-by-step process called Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, and Control (DMAIC). These five phases are briefly explained below: 

a) Define: The project goals and customer requirements are clearly defined in this phase.  

b) Measure: In this phase, data is collected to understand the process's current state and identify improvement areas.  

c) Analyse: This phase focuses on analysing data to determine the root cause of defects or variations.  

d) Improve: This phase involves implementing solutions and making necessary changes to eliminate the identified issues.  

Six Sigma Case Study  

In this section we discuss two Six Sigma Case Study that will help you understand and use it better.  

Case Study 1: Improving customer service  

This Six Sigma Case Study will focus on a telecommunications company facing significant customer service challenges. The issues included long wait times, frequent call transfers, unresolved issues, and many more. The company decided to apply Six Sigma methodologies to enhance customer satisfaction.  

a) Define phase: Using the DMAIC approach, the team began by defining the problem: long wait times and inefficient call handling. They set a goal to reduce average wait time and increase first-call resolution rates.  

b) Measure phase: In this phase, data was collected to analyse call volume, wait times, and reasons for call transfers. This helped identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement.  

c) Analyse phase: During this phase, the team discovered that inadequate training and complex call routing were key contributors to the problems. They also found that certain product issues required better resolution protocols.  

d) Improve phase: In this phase, targeted solutions were introduced and implemented to address these issues. The team revamped the training program, ensuring agents were well-trained and equipped to handle customer inquiries. They simplified call routing and introduced automated prompts for quicker issue resolution.  

e) Control phase: Finally, monitoring systems were established in the control phase to track key metrics and ensure sustained improvements. Regular feedback loops were implemented to identify emerging challenges and make necessary adjustments.  

The results were exceptional. Average wait times were reduced by 40%, and first-call resolution rates increased by 25%. Customer satisfaction scores improved significantly, leading to increased loyalty and positive word-of-mouth.  

This Six Sigma Case Study highlights how Six Sigma methodologies can drive transformative improvements in customer service. By focusing on data analysis, process optimisation, and continuous monitoring, organisations can achieve outstanding outcomes and deliver exceptional customer experiences. 

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Case Study 2: Improving delivery efficiency

a) Define phase: The business used the Voice of the Customer (VoC) tool to understand customer needs and expectations. They identified prompt delivery, correct product selection, and a knowledgeable distribution team as crucial customer requirements. 

b) Measure phase: The team collected data to evaluate the problem of slow delivery. They discovered that their Order Fulfillment Cycle Time (OFCT) was 46% longer than competitors, leading to customer dissatisfaction.  

c) Analyse phase: The team brainstormed potential causes of slow delivery, including accuracy of sales plans, buffer stock issues, vendor delivery performance, and manufacturing schedule delays. They conducted a regression analysis, revealing that inadequate buffer stock for high-demand products was the main issue affecting delivery efficiency.  

d) Improve phase: The distributor implemented a monthly demand review to ensure that in-demand products are readily available. They emphasised ordering and providing customers with the specific products they desired.  

e) Control phase: The team developed plans to monitor sales of the top 20% of bestselling products, avoiding over or under-supply situations. They conducted annual reviews to identify any changes in demand and proactively adjust product offerings.  

By applying Six Sigma Principles , the plumbing product distributor significantly improved its delivery efficiency, addressing the root cause of customer dissatisfaction. Prompt action, data-driven decision-making, and ongoing monitoring allowed them to meet customer expectations, enhance its reputation, and maintain a competitive edge in the industry. This case demonstrates the power of Lean Six Sigma in driving operational excellence and customer-centric improvements. 

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Conclusion  

We hope this blog gives you enough insights into the Six Sigma Case Study. This blog showcased the effectiveness of its methodology in driving transformative improvements. By applying DMAIC and using customer insights and data analysis, organisations have successfully resolved delivery inefficiencies, improving customer satisfaction and operational performance. The blog highlights how Six Sigma can be a powerful framework for organisations seeking excellence and exceptional value. 

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Top Six Sigma Case Study 2024

Home Blog Quality Top Six Sigma Case Study 2024

Six Sigma is an array of methods and resources for enhancing corporate operations. When Bill Smith was an engineer at Motorola, he introduced it in 1986 to find and eliminate mistakes and defects, reduce variance, and improve quality and efficiency. Six Sigma was first used in manufacturing as a quality control tool. When long-term defect levels are less than 3.4 defects per million opportunities ( DPMO ), Six Sigma quality is reached.

Six Sigma case study   offers a glimpse into how various companies have harnessed the five distinct phases: defining, measuring, analyzing, improving, and controlling, principles of Six Sigma to overcome challenges, streamline processes, and improve across diverse industries.

What Are Six Sigma Case Studies, and Why Are They Important?

Six Sigma case studies examples   show how Six Sigma techniques have been used in businesses to solve issues or enhance operations. For practitioners and companies pondering enforcing Six Sigma concepts, these case studies are an invaluable resource to learn the advantages and efficacy of Six Sigma adoption.

Here are the reasons why six sigma case study is important:

Success Illustration: Case studies demonstrate how Six Sigma projects generate tangible advantages like better productivity, fewer defects, and more customer satisfaction while providing unambiguous evidence of their efficacy.

Learning Opportunities:  They deliver vital insights to use Six Sigma tools and processes realistically and allow others to learn from successful approaches and avoid common errors.

ROI Demonstration:  Case studies provide quantitative data to show the return on investment from Six Sigma projects, which helps justify resources and get support for future initiatives.

Promoting Adoption:  They cultivate a continuous improvement culture and show how Six Sigma concepts can be used in different situations and sectors, which encourages other businesses to embrace the methodology.

Become a Six Sigma Certified Professional and lead process improvement teams to success. Learn how to streamline processes and drive organizational growth in any industry. Join our Lean 6 Sigma training courses and transform your career trajectory with valuable skills and industry recognition.

Six Sigma Case Studies

Let us discuss some real-world case study on six sigma   examples of successful Six Sigma undertakings through case studies:

1. Six Sigma Success: Catalent Pharma Solutions

Do you know how Six Sigma techniques turned things around for Catalent Pharma Solutions?

Six Sigma methodologies, initially presented by Motorola in 1986 and prominently used by General Electric during CEO Jack Welch's leadership, are essential for enhancing customer contentment via defect minimization. Catalent Pharma Solutions, a top pharmaceutical development business, employed Six Sigma to address high mistake rates in its Zydis product line. By applying statistical analysis and automation, training employees to various belt levels, and implementing Six Sigma procedures, Catalent was able to maintain product batches and boost production. This case study illustrates how Six Sigma approaches are beneficial for businesses across all industries as they can improve processes, prevent losses, and aid in cost reduction.

2. TDLR's Record Management: A Six Sigma Success Story

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) faced escalating costs due to the storage of records, prompting a Six Sigma initiative led by Alaric Robertson. By implementing Six Sigma methodologies, process mapping, and systematic review, TDLR successfully reduced storage costs and streamlined record management processes. With a team effort and strategic changes, TDLR has achieved significant cost savings and improved efficiency. The project also led to the establishment of a robust records management department within TDLR.

3. Six Sigma Environmental Success: Baxter Manufacturing

Baxter Manufacturing utilized Six Sigma principles to enhance its environmental performance and aim for greater efficiency. Through the implementation of Lean manufacturing and accurate data collection, Baxter reduced waste generation while doubling revenue and maintaining waste levels. With a cross-functional team trained in Six Sigma, the company achieved significant water and cost savings without major investments in technology. It led to promotions for team leaders and showcased the effectiveness of Six Sigma in improving environmental sustainability.

4. Aerospace Manufacturer Boosts Efficiency With Six Sigma

Have you heard about how Six Sigma principles transformed an aerospace parts manufacturer? Here is the 6 Sigma case study   for aerospace parts manufacturer

A small aerospace parts manufacturer used Six Sigma to cut machining cycle time, reducing costs. Key engineers obtained Six Sigma certification and led the project, involving management and operators. Using DMAIC, they analyzed data, identified root causes, and implemented lean solutions. The process yielded a 46% reduction in cycle time and an 80% decrease in variation, enhanced productivity and profitability. The case highlights how Six Sigma principles can benefit businesses of all sizes and emphasizes the importance of training for successful implementation.

Enroll in the  Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification online training to advance your career! Gain expertise in process improvement and organizational transformation with expert-led training and real-world case studies. Start now to become a certified professional in quality management.

5. Ford Motors: Driving Success

This is a   case study on Six Sigma  i ncorporated by Ford Motors to streamline processes, improve quality, significantly reduce costs, and reduce environmental impact. Initially met with skepticism, Ford's implementation overcame challenges, achieving remarkable results: $2.19 billion in waste reduction, $1 billion in savings, and a five-point increase in customer satisfaction. Ford's Consumer-driven Six Sigma initiative set a benchmark in the automotive industry and proved the efficacy of data-driven problem-solving. Despite obstacles, Ford's Six Sigma exemplifies transformative success in process improvement and customer satisfaction enhancement.

6. 3M's Pollution Prevention Six Sigma Success

Have you checked out how 3M tackled pollution with Six Sigma? It's pretty remarkable. 3M leveraged Six Sigma to pioneer pollution prevention, saving $1 billion and averting 2.6 million pounds of pollutants over 31 years. With 55,000 employees trained and 45,000 Lean Six Sigma projects completed, they focused on waste reduction and energy efficiency. Results included a 61% decrease in volatile air emissions and a 64% reduction in EPA Toxic Release Inventory. Surpassing goals, they doubled Pollution Prevention Pays projects and showcased Six Sigma's prowess in cost-saving measures.

7. Microsoft Sigma Story Lean Six Sigma

By using Lean Six Sigma case studies, Microsoft increased customer interactions and profitability through waste removal and process optimization. They concentrated on improving the quality of the current process and reducing problems by utilizing the DMAIC technique. Eight areas were the focus of waste elimination: motion, inventory, non-value-added procedures, waiting periods, overproduction, defects, and underutilized staff talent. Microsoft streamlined processes and encouraged innovation, which allowed them to maintain productivity and client satisfaction even as technology changed.

8. Xerox's Lean Six Sigma Success Story Six Sigma

It is another important case study of the Six Sigma project. When Xerox implemented Lean Six Sigma in 2003, the organization underwent a significant transformation. They reduced variance and eliminated waste as they painstakingly optimized internal operations. It improved their operational effectiveness and raised the caliber of their goods and services. Through extensive training programs for staff members, Xerox enabled its employees to spearhead projects aimed at improving different departments and functions. The organization saw significant improvements in customer satisfaction and service performance.

9. A Green Belt Project Six Sigma Case Study

It is one of the best examples of a Six Sigma case study. Anne Cesarone's Green Belt project successfully reduced router configuration time by 16 minutes, a remarkable 55% improvement. Anne maintained router inventory, made improvements to documentation and configuration files, and started router requests sooner by resolving last-minute requests and setup mistakes. The initiative resulted in less router programming time from 29 to 13 minutes, an increase in router order lead time of 11 days, and a 60% drop in incorrect configurations. These raised customer happiness and increased operational effectiveness while proving the benefits of process improvement initiatives.

10. Improving Street Maintenance Payments with Lean Six Sigma

Jessica Shirley-Saenz, a Black Belt at the City of San Antonio, used Lean Six Sigma to address delays in street maintenance payments Lean Six Sigma case study examples. Contractors were experiencing extended payment times, risking project delays and city infrastructure integrity. Root causes included payment rejections and delayed invoicing. By implementing quantity tolerance thresholds, centralizing documentation processes, and updating payment workflows, monthly payment requests increased from 97 to 116. Rejected payments decreased from 17 to 12, reducing the rejection percentage from 58% to 42%, saving $6.6 million.

 Six Sigma's effectiveness spans industries, from healthcare to technology. Case studies demonstrate its ability to optimize processes and improve outcomes. From healthcare facilities streamlining patient care to tech companies enhancing software development, Six Sigma offers adaptable solutions for diverse challenges. These real-world examples illustrate how its methodologies drive efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction. Professionals can learn valuable lessons from using Six Sigma in healthcare studies, identify strategies to overcome obstacles and facilitate continuous improvement. Organizations can emulate best practices and implement similar initiatives to achieve measurable results by studying successful implementations.

Ready to enhance your skills and advance your career with Six Sigma certification? Join our comprehensive KnowledgeHut's best lean Six Sigma courses to master Six Sigma principles and methodologies. Become a sought-after professional in IT, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Finance, and more industries. Enroll now to accelerate your career growth!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Six Sigma case studies are available in various formats and places, such as books, academic journals, professional publications, and Internet sites. Many companies that have effectively adopted Six Sigma publish their case studies on their websites or at industry exhibitions and conferences.

Six Sigma case studies provide insightful information on how businesses have addressed certain issues, enhanced procedures, and produced noticeable outcomes. Professionals gain knowledge about best practices, prevalent errors to avoid, and creative problem-solving methods in several industries and circumstances.

Professionals can share their Six Sigma case studies through industry forums, professional networking platforms, blogs, and social media. They can submit their case studies to publications or at conferences and workshops to reach a wider audience within the Six Sigma community.

Shivender Sharma

Shivendra Sharma, an accomplished author of the international bestseller 'Being Yogi,' is a multifaceted professional. With an MBA in HR and a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, he boasts 15 years of experience in business and digital transformation, strategy consulting, and process improvement. As a member of the Technical Committee of the International Association of Six Sigma Certification (IASSC), he has led multi-million dollar savings through organization-wide transformation projects. Shivendra's expertise lies in deploying Lean and Six Sigma tools across global stakeholders in EMEA, North America, and APAC, achieving remarkable business results. 

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Lean Six Sigma within the Manufacturing Industry: Case Studies 

Canadian enterprises are consistently integrating Lean Six Sigma initiatives with notable achievements. When executed strategically and with foresight, Lean Six Sigma activities typically result in reducing inefficiencies, eliminating waste, and enhancing profitability. This versatile methodology can be tailored to address various business obstacles, offering a systematic approach to organizational enhancement. 

This blog outlines case studies exemplifying the use of Lean Six Sigma strategies to eliminate outdated business procedures that failed to meet contemporary market norms. These entities revamped their operations, resulting in immediate improvements to both revenue generation and profitability. If you are in the manufacturing industry, this blog can be a helpful resource for gaining inspiration to build out your own Lean Six Sigma process.  

This is the third blog of a three part series: Part 1: Canadian Guide to Lean Manufacturing Part 2: How to Use the DMAIC Framework for Lean Manufacturing Part 3: Lean Six Sigma within the Manufacturing Industry: Case Studies

Case 1: Increasing Capacity and Production Output  

An Ontario manufacturer embarked on its journey with automated technologies over 15 years ago by adopting a Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) machining cell equipped with one machine and a 16-pallet system. The immediate surge in productivity from this single equipment propelled the company into an expansion phase, necessitating a move to a larger facility. 

The new facility offered ample space for innovative technologies, leading to the installation of additional computer numerical control (CNC) machines to enhance unattended operations. This resulted in a threefold increase in automated production capacity prompting the company’s operating costs to decrease by 20%, while output surged by an impressive 375%. Further efficiencies were achieved with the acquisition of a machine-tending robot, which streamlined the loading and unloading of parts onto the CNC machine, boosting output by an additional 67% and facilitating round-the-clock production. 

Subsequent equipment enhancements included the deployment of a robotic deburring machine, addressing the strenuous deburring process previously handled by human labor. Automating this process not only reduced post-processing costs by 30% but also contributed to increased productivity and employee morale. 

To optimize information flow across departments, the manufacturer implemented an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, enabling seamless unattended operations and facilitating “lights-out” production, resulting in the creation of hundreds of units without human intervention. 

Case 2: Re-Imagining Organizational Structure  

For over four decades, a Canadian welder and fabricator specializing in custom-designed industrial equipment witnessed remarkable growth and success. Originating as a small-scale job shop catering to the oil and gas sector, the company evolved from crafting individual pieces to producing hundreds of bespoke products annually. 

Despite this trajectory, the journey was not without its challenges. Early expansions exposed inefficiencies in processes, leading to diminished operational effectiveness and customer satisfaction. Following a transition to a larger facility, inadequate floor space and suboptimal processes precipitated a decline in performance, exacerbated by the economic downturn of 2009, which served as a catalyst for significant organizational restructuring. 

The Lean Six Sigma transformation commenced with a systematic evaluation of existing processes, identifying inefficiencies, and laying the groundwork for streamlining and standardization. Implementation of 5S principles instilled order and cleanliness in the work environment, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. 

Beyond process enhancements, the management team undertook a comprehensive reorganization, realigning roles and responsibilities to support the newly optimized workflows. The shop floor underwent a complete redesign to facilitate function-based process flows, promoting collaboration among work teams and enhancing productivity while minimizing safety risks. 

Notably, the ethos of operational excellence permeated the organization, with enthusiastic employee engagement driving the adoption of 5S methodologies and fostering a culture of innovation, where novel improvement ideas originated from the shop floor. 

Case 3: Energy Efficiency & Sustainable Process   

An Ontario-based cement producer found escalating energy costs were eroding their profits, particularly during the early to mid-2000s. With nearly half of their production expenses allocated to energy, they recognized the need to mitigate these costs to remain competitive regionally and globally, and embarked on a proactive strategy. 

In 2009, the company engaged a local energy consultant to develop a comprehensive energy management program. Swift implementation of this initiative yielded tangible improvements in the production process. Notably, a significant transformation occurred with the shift of production to off-peak hours, capitalizing on lower energy costs during these periods. This strategic adjustment resulted in a notable reduction in energy expenses as a proportion of overall production costs, thereby enhancing competitiveness and preserving a larger share of revenues. 

Moreover, conducting production cycles during nighttime facilitated more frequent cleaning and machine maintenance during daytime hours, contributing to additional cost savings and minimizing machine downtime. 

The adoption of Lean Six Sigma principles in this endeavor underscores the efficacy of structured problem-solving methodologies in addressing complex operational challenges. The results speak volumes: approximately $10 million in energy-related production costs were saved, and approximately 32,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions were eliminated over an eight-year period. 

This case exemplifies the symbiotic relationship between Lean Six Sigma methodologies and government funding initiatives in driving sustainable business practices and fostering economic growth. Leveraging government grants and loans to support continuous improvement projects not only mitigates financial constraints but also aligns with national objectives of enhancing competitiveness, revenue generation, and environmental sustainability. 

Funding Opportunities for Lean Six Sigma Projects   

There are several manufacturing grants available to support your manufacturing processes. Learn more below about which types of funding are available to subsidize your next project. 

Business Expansion Funding  

Lean Six Sigma initiatives play a pivotal role in identifying opportunities for business expansion. Through meticulous performance analysis and demand forecasting, lean organizations streamline operations to effectively manage growth. Common strategies involve expanding or relocating production facilities, particularly for organizations that have bolstered profitability through operational improvements. These endeavors are supported by a range of funding programs across Canada, offering grants and loans to enhance internal processes, increase output, and facilitate market expansion, including financial assistance for trade show participation and export activities.  

Visit our Business Expansion Funding directory to find the appropriate business expansion funding program for your project.   

Funding for Technology Adoption 

While Lean Six Sigma emphasizes continuous improvement, integrating innovative technologies can expedite growth. New technological advancements complement lean methodologies by enhancing efficiencies beyond traditional improvement strategies. Investments in robotics and advanced manufacturing equipment are instrumental in optimizing operations and minimizing waste. Technology grants and loans are available at both provincial and federal levels, tailored to key industries to foster technological innovation and competitiveness. 

Explore our Capital & Tech Adoption Funding Directory to learn more about available grant programs to support your manufacturing business.   

Funding for Hiring and Training 

A skilled and motivated workforce is essential for implementing a lean culture within an organization. Hiring and training initiatives are integral components of Lean Six Sigma projects, ensuring consistent delivery of quality products and services. Proactive recruitment and training efforts mitigate talent gaps and establish succession plans. Government grants offset wage costs for new hires, particularly youth, and subsidize training programs to cultivate a skilled workforce. These grants cover internal and third-party training initiatives, supporting ongoing skill development and organizational growth. 

Onboard the right members and train them to become highly skilled with Hiring & Training funding programs. You can upskill your labor without incurring new costs.  

Funding for Research and Development 

Research and development underpin the foundation of Lean Six Sigma projects, driving sustainable performance improvements. Formalizing the research and development process enables businesses to leverage insights for growth and innovation. Grants for research and development projects are available nationwide, fostering collaboration between businesses and academic institutions to spur innovation. These programs accelerate operational strengths through innovative research, with government funding catalyzing the R&D process and fostering long-term organizational resilience. 

The Canadian government highly prioritizes Research and Development projects. There are many funding options available to upgrade your processes – explore our directory today.  

Develop a Proactive Funding Plan   

Lean Six Sigma project plans provide a great starting point to launch a sustainable business development strategy, but these plans will not happen if the right actions are not taken. Developing a Proactive Funding Plan for continuous improvement helps align government funding so that lean projects can be completed more frequently. 

Download our free guide on how to Build A Government Funding Plan . With this slide deck, business executives will be able to identify projects and priorities well-suited for funding; apply for funding programs at the best time possible; and understand government impacts required for funding approval.  

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Proposal Writing 1 Day workshop in Adelaide on Jun 20th, 2024

Offers: Group of 5 - 10 people 10% Discount, Group of 11 - 20 people 15% Discount

Date and time

For venue details reach us at [email protected], PH: +1 469 666 9332

Refund Policy

Module One: Understanding Proposals

Module Two: Beginning the Proposal Writing Process

Module Three: Preparing an Outline

Module Four: Finding Facts

Module Five: Writing Skills (I)

Module Six: Writing Skills (II)

Module Seven: Writing the Proposal

Module Eight: Checking for Readability

Module Nine: Proofreading and Editing

Module Ten: Adding the Final Touches

Module Eleven: Wrapping Up

About this event

Certificate: Course Completion Certificate

Language: English

Duration: 1 Day

Refreshments: Snacks, Beverages and Lunch included in classroom session

Course Delivery: Classroom

Course Overview:

A good proposal doesn’t just outline what product or service you would like to create or deliver. It does so in such a way that the reader feels it is the only logical choice. Your participants will explore the proposal writing process including the most common types of proposals.

The Proposal Writing workshop will take participants through each step of the proposal writing process, from understanding why they are writing a proposal; to gathering information; to writing and proofreading; to creating the final, professional product.

Learning Objectives:

• Writing winning proposals effectively and efficiently.
• Develop proposals with a higher chance of winning.
• Learn how to differentiate your proposals from the competition.
• Best practices, templates, guides, and tips and tricks.
• Proposal strategy, planning, authoring, and improving.
• Thinking like a proposal evaluator, funder, buyer, or investor.
• Learning to win business via grants and contracts.

Prerequisites:

Course Materials:

Attendees will receive a course manual with presentation slides and reference materials.

Technical Requirements:

For eBooks:

Internet for downloading the eBook

Laptop, tablet, Smartphone, eReader (No Kindle)

Adobe DRM supported software (e.g. Digital Editions, Bluefire Reader)

eBook download and activation instructions

Target Audience:

Anybody who is interested in learning Proposal Writing Skills.

We also offer a variety of other courses :

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Training:- The Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (ICGB) is a professional who is well versed in the Lean Six Sigma Methodology who both leads or supports improvement projects, typically as a part-time role. A Lean Six Sigma Green Belt possesses a thorough understanding of all aspects within the phases of D-M-A-I-C. They understand how to perform and interpret Six Sigma tools and how to use standard principles of Lean.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt operates in support or under the supervision of a Six Sigma Black Belt, analyzes and solves business problems, and is involved in process and quality improvement projects. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt drives process improvement initiatives to develop robust systems for the business and deliver consistent output to customers. Green Belt training equips individuals with a logical and objective way to identify, measure, and eliminate problems / issues with process within an organization. The training also enhances the way employees approach their day-to-day work and strategically positioned to support each other in the workplace, the improvement potential expands.

Business Etiquette Workshop:- These Business Etiquette training have been developed to help ensure the people in your organisation are aware of the importance of meeting common workplace standards. You may not be aware how certain behaviours affect others within the organisation, and indeed how that affects the business as a whole. Alternatively, it might be that people need to have honest conversations with each other to ensure they work together collaboratively.

The session will help you to build self-awareness and will highlight the important parts of business etiquette and why it’s such an important topic.

Organizational Skills Training:- Developing good Organizational Skill is an investment that will provide benefits for years. To be successful means to be organized. These skills will filter through all aspects of your participants professional and personal lives. Throughout this workshop your participants will be given the tools necessary in developing better Organizational Skills.

Through Organizational Skills your participants will encounter improved productivity, better management, and an overall increase in professional growth. Every day people waste numerous amounts of time looking for items. So stop looking for those important items, and start knowing where they are by getting organized.

Time Management Workshop:- Personal time management skills are essential for professional success in any workplace. Those who are able to successfully implement time management strategies are able to control their workload rather than spend each day in a frenzy of activity reacting to crisis after crisis – stress declines and personal productivity soars! These highly effective individuals are able to focus on the tasks with the greatest impact on them and their organization.

The Time Management workshop will cover strategies to help participants learn these crucial strategies. Your participants will be given a skill set that includes personal motivation, delegation skills, organization tools, and crisis management. We’ll cover all this and more during this workshop.

Manager Management Workshop : - With this course, you will be able to provide the skills, guidance, and empowerment to your team of managers. They will then be better suited in leading and motivating their team and thus produce fantastic results. To be a successful manager means having a wide range of skills. Through this workshop, you will be able to disperse your knowledge and experience throughout your leadership team.

Manager Management takes a special type of leader. This workshop will expand your participant's knowledge and provide a way for them to teach and lead new and experienced managers. As every manager knows that learning never stops, this workshop will have something for everyone.

Personal Branding Workshop :- Personal Branding is identifying your assets, characteristics, strengths, and skills as an individual. Understanding Personal Branding will provide advantages in your participant’s personal and professional lives. Branding is a mix of how you present yourself and how others see you. It is important to be aware of how you are viewed.

With our Personal Branding course your participants will be able to share their vision and passions with others in your company. Utilize this knowledge through Social Media to define and influence how others see you. You are your brand so protect it. Live it.

Leading Effective Teams Workshop:- These training based on leading teams will help you to develop anyone that leads a team or is involved in a leadership role. It is also useful for those that are about to embark on a position of leadership or need to develop their leadership skills.

Training course contents:

Having an effective team around you is crucial. However, it is an area that is often left to chance, which can lead to de-motivated individuals that do not feel part of the business and consequently do not perform. This course looks at what it takes to lead an effective team and how you can get the best out of the people in it by understanding the role of leader, both personally and from the point of view of the team.

Project Management Basics Training :- With this course you will gain a basic understanding of Project Management based on the Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge® – 5th Edition. The course covers information on project management theory, principles, techniques, and methods.

During the course, exercises are made based upon a case study. The case study may be one of three predefined case studies or a customized case study from the participant's organization.

Communication Skills Training:- Communication skills are the most highly valued skills in today’s business environment. Successful professionals who add value to their companies communicate clearly, accurately and effectively. Poor communication skills, on the other hand, restrict even the most talented professionals from getting ahead in the business world.

Communication Skills intensive is a cutting edge training program designed to help today’s business professionals take their communication skills and effectiveness to the next level. It immerses you into the most advanced and innovative communication techniques.

You will dive deep into the all forms of verbal, non-verbal and written communication, and come out with a developed sense of personal communication style that will help you to connect with, communicate to, and inspire people around you.

The ability to communicate information accurately, clearly and as intended, is a vital life skill and something that should not be overlooked. It’s never too late to work on your communication skills and by doing so improve your quality of life.

Time Management Workshop :- Personal time management skills are essential for professional success in any workplace. Those able to successfully implement time management strategies are able to control their workload rather than spend each day in a frenzy of activity reacting to crisis after crisis - stress declines and personal productivity soars! These highly effective individuals are able to focus on the tasks with the greatest impact to them and their organization.

The Time Management workshop will cover strategies to help participants learn these crucial strategies. Your participants will be given a skill set that includes personal motivation, delegation skills, organization tools, and crisis management. We"ll cover all this and more during this workshop.

Frequently asked questions

We provide Course Materials, Lunch, Beverages and Course Completion Certificate.

You can request a refund by sending an email to [email protected] and within 7-14 working days you get your money back.

You can reach us at [email protected] or enroll through our website.

We host the training through both the platform, Online and Classroom. The virtual training option can be chosen by busy professionals.

The duration of the training is 8 hours. The training will run from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Yes, we do provide great discount for the group registration. To enquire, reach us at [email protected]

Once you complete the training, you will receive a globally recognized Course Completion Certificate.

Yes. You can switch your registration to a different course with a week prior notice.

Our subject matter experts are from relevant industries and are certified.

You will be credited with 8 PDUs on completion of this training.

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• About Adverse Childhood Experiences
• Risk and Protective Factors
• Program: Essentials for Childhood: Preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences through Data to Action
• Adverse childhood experiences can have long-term impacts on health, opportunity and well-being.
• Adverse childhood experiences are common and some groups experience them more than others.

What are adverse childhood experiences?

Adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs, are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood (0-17 years). Examples include: 1

• Experiencing violence, abuse, or neglect.
• Witnessing violence in the home or community.
• Having a family member attempt or die by suicide.

Also included are aspects of the child’s environment that can undermine their sense of safety, stability, and bonding. Examples can include growing up in a household with: 1

• Substance use problems.
• Mental health problems.
• Instability due to parental separation.
• Instability due to household members being in jail or prison.

The examples above are not a complete list of adverse experiences. Many other traumatic experiences could impact health and well-being. This can include not having enough food to eat, experiencing homelessness or unstable housing, or experiencing discrimination. 2 3 4 5 6

Quick facts and stats

ACEs are common. About 64% of adults in the United States reported they had experienced at least one type of ACE before age 18. Nearly one in six (17.3%) adults reported they had experienced four or more types of ACEs. 7

Preventing ACEs could potentially reduce many health conditions. Estimates show up to 1.9 million heart disease cases and 21 million depression cases potentially could have been avoided by preventing ACEs. 1

Some people are at greater risk of experiencing one or more ACEs than others. While all children are at risk of ACEs, numerous studies show inequities in such experiences. These inequalities are linked to the historical, social, and economic environments in which some families live. 5 6 ACEs were highest among females, non-Hispanic American Indian or Alaska Native adults, and adults who are unemployed or unable to work. 7

ACEs are costly. ACEs-related health consequences cost an estimated economic burden of $748 billion annually in Bermuda, Canada, and the United States. 8

ACEs can have lasting effects on health and well-being in childhood and life opportunities well into adulthood. 9 Life opportunities include things like education and job potential. These experiences can increase the risks of injury, sexually transmitted infections, and involvement in sex trafficking. They can also increase risks for maternal and child health problems including teen pregnancy, pregnancy complications, and fetal death. Also included are a range of chronic diseases and leading causes of death, such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and suicide. 1 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

ACEs and associated social determinants of health, such as living in under-resourced or racially segregated neighborhoods, can cause toxic stress. Toxic stress, or extended or prolonged stress, from ACEs can negatively affect children’s brain development, immune systems, and stress-response systems. These changes can affect children’s attention, decision-making, and learning. 18

Children growing up with toxic stress may have difficulty forming healthy and stable relationships. They may also have unstable work histories as adults and struggle with finances, jobs, and depression throughout life. 18 These effects can also be passed on to their own children. 19 20 21 Some children may face further exposure to toxic stress from historical and ongoing traumas. These historical and ongoing traumas refer to experiences of racial discrimination or the impacts of poverty resulting from limited educational and economic opportunities. 1 6

Adverse childhood experiences can be prevented. Certain factors may increase or decrease the risk of experiencing adverse childhood experiences.

Preventing adverse childhood experiences requires understanding and addressing the factors that put people at risk for or protect them from violence.

Creating safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments for all children can prevent ACEs and help all children reach their full potential. We all have a role to play.

• Merrick MT, Ford DC, Ports KA, et al. Vital Signs: Estimated Proportion of Adult Health Problems Attributable to Adverse Childhood Experiences and Implications for Prevention — 25 States, 2015–2017. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2019;68:999-1005. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6844e1 .
• Cain KS, Meyer SC, Cummer E, Patel KK, Casacchia NJ, Montez K, Palakshappa D, Brown CL. Association of Food Insecurity with Mental Health Outcomes in Parents and Children. Science Direct. 2022; 22:7; 1105-1114. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.acap.2022.04.010 .
• Smith-Grant J, Kilmer G, Brener N, Robin L, Underwood M. Risk Behaviors and Experiences Among Youth Experiencing Homelessness—Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 23 U.S. States and 11 Local School Districts. Journal of Community Health. 2022; 47: 324-333.
• Experiencing discrimination: Early Childhood Adversity, Toxic Stress, and the Impacts of Racism on the Foundations of Health | Annual Review of Public Health https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-publhealth-090419-101940 .
• Sedlak A, Mettenburg J, Basena M, et al. Fourth national incidence study of child abuse and neglect (NIS-4): Report to Congress. Executive Summary. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health an Human Services, Administration for Children and Families.; 2010.
• Font S, Maguire-Jack K. Pathways from childhood abuse and other adversities to adult health risks: The role of adult socioeconomic conditions. Child Abuse Negl. 2016;51:390-399.
• Swedo EA, Aslam MV, Dahlberg LL, et al. Prevalence of Adverse Childhood Experiences Among U.S. Adults — Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 2011–2020. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2023;72:707–715. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7226a2 .
• Bellis, MA, et al. Life Course Health Consequences and Associated Annual Costs of Adverse Childhood Experiences Across Europe and North America: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Lancet Public Health 2019.
• Adverse Childhood Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Associations with Poor Mental Health and Suicidal Behaviors Among High School Students — Adolescent Behaviors and Experiences Survey, United States, January–June 2021 | MMWR
• Hillis SD, Anda RF, Dube SR, Felitti VJ, Marchbanks PA, Marks JS. The association between adverse childhood experiences and adolescent pregnancy, long-term psychosocial consequences, and fetal death. Pediatrics. 2004 Feb;113(2):320-7.
• Miller ES, Fleming O, Ekpe EE, Grobman WA, Heard-Garris N. Association Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes. Obstetrics & Gynecology . 2021;138(5):770-776. https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0000000000004570 .
• Sulaiman S, Premji SS, Tavangar F, et al. Total Adverse Childhood Experiences and Preterm Birth: A Systematic Review. Matern Child Health J . 2021;25(10):1581-1594. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-021-03176-6 .
• Ciciolla L, Shreffler KM, Tiemeyer S. Maternal Childhood Adversity as a Risk for Perinatal Complications and NICU Hospitalization. Journal of Pediatric Psychology . 2021;46(7):801-813. https://doi.org/10.1093/jpepsy/jsab027 .
• Mersky JP, Lee CP. Adverse childhood experiences and poor birth outcomes in a diverse, low-income sample. BMC pregnancy and childbirth. 2019;19(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-019-2560-8 .
• Reid JA, Baglivio MT, Piquero AR, Greenwald MA, Epps N. No youth left behind to human trafficking: Exploring profiles of risk. American journal of orthopsychiatry. 2019;89(6):704.
• Diamond-Welch B, Kosloski AE. Adverse childhood experiences and propensity to participate in the commercialized sex market. Child Abuse & Neglect. 2020 Jun 1;104:104468.
• Shonkoff, J. P., Garner, A. S., Committee on Psychosocial Aspects of Child and Family Health, Committee on Early Childhood, Adoption, and Dependent Care, & Section on Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics (2012). The lifelong effects of early childhood adversity and toxic stress. Pediatrics, 129(1), e232–e246. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2011-2663
• Narayan AJ, Kalstabakken AW, Labella MH, Nerenberg LS, Monn AR, Masten AS. Intergenerational continuity of adverse childhood experiences in homeless families: unpacking exposure to maltreatment versus family dysfunction. Am J Orthopsych. 2017;87(1):3. https://doi.org/10.1037/ort0000133 .
• Schofield TJ, Donnellan MB, Merrick MT, Ports KA, Klevens J, Leeb R. Intergenerational continuity in adverse childhood experiences and rural community environments. Am J Public Health. 2018;108(9):1148-1152. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2018.304598 .
• Schofield TJ, Lee RD, Merrick MT. Safe, stable, nurturing relationships as a moderator of intergenerational continuity of child maltreatment: a meta-analysis. J Adolesc Health. 2013;53(4 Suppl):S32-38. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2013.05.004 .

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

ACEs can have a tremendous impact on lifelong health and opportunity. CDC works to understand ACEs and prevent them.

Fixing Payroll Problems: A TQM Case Study in Human Resources

Published: April 21, 2010 by Niraj Goyal

A large, Indian, fast-moving consumer goods company had completed successful total quality management (TQM) projects to improve its manufacturing efficiency, expedite vendor payments and increase availability of finished products. For its next project, the company wanted to address problems in human resources (HR). By working with HR process owners, a focus for the project emerged – the payroll process.

The following case study details the company’s experience using the TQM methodology’s seven steps of problem solving to address the issue.

Pre-step 1: Select the Problem

After attending an introductory two-day training program in TQM, the project leader asked the company’s HR employees to brainstorm key problems in human resources. They also considered the results of each problem (Table 1).

From this list, the group could see that the real problem was that internal customers were facing delays and errors. The group went on to brainstorm and prioritize the major areas of errors and delay within HR (Table 2).

Discussion revealed that the employee database is not a problem in itself; the team decided to tackle the payroll process instead. HR employees told the group that completing their job each month without delays or errors required a lot of pressure and running around.

A representative group from the finance department, the payroll manager, key payroll personnel and the four regional HR managers were selected for the project team. A leader and secretary were nominated, and the team began meeting every other week.

Step 1 – Defining the Problem

In TQM, a Problem = Desire – Actual Status ; problems also must be measurable. The team faced the challenge of measuring “undue pressure” on behalf of the payroll employees. They decided that the metric employee overtime could represent this pressure.

The team set out to record how much overtime (OT) each employee was incurring daily and what activities they worked on during that overtime. Measurements during the first month yielded an average of 36 minutes of overtime per person per day.

This average did not appear so bad. In reality, however, the problem was the peaks rather than the average. Employees tend to remember the stressful days when overtime is high. To get a better picture, the team calculated a standard deviation of 18.8 minutes. This meant that on the worst days, overtime was an average of 92 minutes per person (average + 3 standard deviations) – and on those days there were two or three employees whose overtime was much higher than 92 minutes.

Therefore, the team decided to work to reduce the average + 3 standard deviation limit to address the problem. They set a Phase 1 target to reduce the average + 3 standard deviation time by 50 percent.

Step 2: Finding the Root Causes

The team mapped overtime activities in a Pareto diagram to ascertain the vital causes (Figure 1). Table 4 shows the top 7 causes accounting for 81 percent of the OT.

Recruitment necessitated after-hours interviews, while meetings involved other departments not yet trained in TQM. The causes that the team could change were data crunching, master changes in SAP (the enterprise resource planning program) and repeated changes in data formats requested from the head office. These three areas constituted 29 percent of the overtime and were addressed first.

Sixty percent of the overtime in these areas emanated from two regions; another 35 percent came from two employees in the head office. Why? The other region representatives explained that they had put in a special one-time effort to develop data entry and storage formats for the diverse information requested by the head office to reduce future data crunching. They shared this standardized formatting with the two lagging regions to reduce their overtime.

But why were the regions developing formats in the first place? Were the formats not present already? The team mapped the current process steps:

• Regions enter changes to be made in the SAP personnel master into an Excel sheet
• Excel sheet sent to head office
• Head office employees enter data into SAP before the payroll each month. The payroll employees face intense pressure due to gaps and errors in the data entry.

Step 3: Countermeasure Ideas

The team suggested a two-phase process change using just-in-time principles:

Phase 1: Replace batching with flow processing. With this method regions enter and send data weekly, and the head office enters weekly, without waiting until the end of the month.

Phase 2: Eliminate non-value added stages. Eventually, the regions should be able to enter data directly into SAP weekly, and the head office will enter its own entries weekly.

Steps 4 and 5: Testing Ideas and Checking Results

The countermeasure ideas took two months to test. An X-bar control chart was introduced to track the average overtime per person per day. The chart showed a 48 percent reduction in average time + 3 standard deviations, from 92 minutes to 50 minutes.

Step 6: Standardizing Operations

The 3 standard deviation limit was maintained. Simultaneously, however, employees were also experiencing stress and working overtime due to errors or incomplete entries during the payroll run and frantic queries for the correct information. Finding the most frequent errors, their root causes and countermeasures would eliminate this problem.

The team selected the metric errors per query per payroll. There were 65 in the first run. Following is an example of an error, its cause and the countermeasure the team developed to resolve it:

• Error: Incorrect deduction of lunch coupons
• Number of occurrences: 11 in two months, or 15 percent of total errors
• Root cause analysis: All errors occurred in one region. The region with errors gave lunch coupons at the beginning of the month, while other regions gave them at the end of the month, thus making the accounting foolproof.
• Countermeasure: Adopt standard process
• Check the result: No errors post implementation. Within three months, errors and queries were reduced by 98 percent from 65 per payroll run to 1. Regular progress tracking was introduced (Figure 2).

Step 7: Maintain Improvements

The team compiled the improvement results and presented them to management. In the future, the payroll manager will meet with the staff after each payroll run to analyze and address any errors that are occurring. The overtime control chart will be plotted every day, and any unusual spikes also will be analyzed and addressed.

The project also led to changes in the mindsets of the employees involved. For instance, after the project, the human resources director remarked how one of the participants made an error in his work and reported it, along with a 5-whys and countermeasure analysis – something that would never have happened earlier.

About the Author

Niraj Goyal