Sustainability of process improvements: an application of the experiential learning model (ELM)
Document Type
Article
Date of Original Version
9-2-2017
Abstract
Despite the pervasiveness of process improvement (Lean or Six Sigma) programmes, there is a rising concern regarding the sustainability of these programmes. Several studies point out that initial operational efficiency gains as a result of these programmes simply disappear over time. Using process improvement implementation experiences in an aircraft manufacturing and distribution operation, we studied long-term sustainability of process improvement events. We found that process owners of successful improvement events applied experiential learning model (ELM). The ELM is a cycle of–(1) concrete experience, (2) reflective observations, and (3) abstract conceptualizations, and (4) active experimentation. This study finds that when the ELM cycle is repeated many times over an extended period to continuously improve, and documented using A3 reports, that the improvement is sustained.
Publication Title, e.g., Journal
International Journal of Production Research
Volume
55
Issue
17
Citation/Publisher Attribution
Chakravorty, Satya S., and Douglas N. Hales. "Sustainability of process improvements: an application of the experiential learning model (ELM)." International Journal of Production Research 55, 17 (2017): 4931-4947. doi: 10.1080/00207543.2016.1277278.