In the world of project management, the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) highlights quality as a critical pillar of the Delivery Performance Domain. Most projects focus the lion's share of their efforts on time and cost. Project managers regularly land in the lion's den when they overlook the third vital component of the project triangle: … [Read more...]
A value stream map is a tool used in lean manufacturing to identify and communicate the value-producing processes within a factory. Value stream maps utilize a standard set of industry recognized symbols to map out the plant's processes, from raw material to finished product. Value stream maps are used to improve the plant's processes, perform continuous improvement … [Read more...]
Value stream maps are diagrams used in lean manufacturing which identify each step of the manufacturing process. They are used to determine the value stream, that is, the steps that result in the creation of value. Their purpose is to visualize the manufacturing process so that anything that is not necessary to create the product of value can be eliminated. This is … [Read more...]
The Terms of Reference (TOR) is a description of the technical work involved in a project, or part of a project. Specifically, it is used to specify the work required by an external consultant, contractor, or supplier. It is the technical part of the bidding documents. Typically, a project manager develops a Terms of Reference which is included within the bidding … [Read more...]
Us humans are predisposed to want free stuff. In the universe of project management, where budgets are tight and timelines are tighter, there exists an underutilized resource that can significantly boost productivity, morale, and project outcomes: humanity's undying love for free stuff. Yes, you heard that right. The same principle that makes us dive into the depths … [Read more...]
The definition of genius is taking the complex and making it simple. - Albert Einstein I have good news for you. If you are in the manufacturing business, you can become a genius today, right now. The shop floor can be a complex maze of raw materials moving in interlocking production lines, stations with varying cycle times, supply needs, and manpower … [Read more...]
All projects have stakeholders. As a minimum, the project sponsor who initiated the project is a stakeholder who expects a deliverable from the project. At first glance, the project's stakeholders might be obvious, for example a government regulatory agency, or an adjacent landowner that is affected by a construction project. But these main stakeholders are seldom … [Read more...]
A baseline is defined as a time-based standard against which performance is measured. A project baseline is a time-based plan as opposed to one, single target value. Projects will often have a single, target value that defines their success, but it is important to know if the project is in good health at any given intermediate project control point. The baseline … [Read more...]
Starting from a point of almost complete ruin after World War II, the Toyota Motor Company rose to become the largest car maker in the world in the mid-2000's. This resulted in many inquiries into the source of their success. Starting in 1988, the engineers and architects of Toyota's success began to open up. As a result, the Toyota Production System (TPS) has evolved … [Read more...]
Every project starts with a burst of enthusiasm. Team members are energized, ideas are flowing, and everything seems possible. This initial phase, often referred to as the "honeymoon period," is characterized by high motivation and productivity. However, as time progresses, this initial zeal can wane, leading to a period where productivity might not meet … [Read more...]
