 |
Seeing the system |
| Step Two |
A network of interdependent processes
Tools for improving the system
A network of interdependent processes
If we want to achieve our goal, we must be sure all the components in our organization behave consistently with respect to the goal we have established. To fully understand how the elements in our system interact, we must be able to see our organization as a network of interdependent processes.
Our system is made up of processes. What
is a process ?
A set of inputs and a set of outputs.
Inputs can come from components of the
system or, for example, from the material the process is acting on.
If we want to understand more about the
interactions in our organization, we must design the processes that constitute
our system. Once we have designed a process, we know:
who does what
what gets done and when
which decisions have to be made
what the possible consequences of every decision are
Tools for improving the system
The simplest, most effective method for
this is the Deployment Flowchart. (See an example)
This tool provides us with a representation
of a sequence of events, activities, steps and decisions that transform
inputs in a system or process into output.
The knowledge we gain from a Deployment
Flowchart is what we need to be able to make the right decisions throughout
the process in order to improve it.
Moreover, if people work together to design
the system, they can see how they contribute to the goal of the process.
This fosters continuous improvement as people are able to understand the
best way to do their job.
When we are able to see how and where
various processes interact, we can identify internal customers and suppliers.
This helps break down barriers between individuals and functions.
When we examine the process we have designed
and we find inconsistencies in relation to the goal of the system, we then
have to redesign the process so it conforms with that goal.
Redesigning our organization can also
have negative implications. People tend to resist change and managers need
an effective means of dealing with fears and conflicts among staff.
The TOC
Thinking Processes tools to help with this are the Conflict
Cloud and Negative Branch Reservation.
Summary
In Step Two we have designed and redefined the processes of our organization so that they are consistent with the goal of the system. Having a clear and constant view of the system allows us to study results and decide how to behave. That means being able to improve the system.
