Quote:
Originally Posted by JerryM
I would think that workflow automation could go a long way to reducing waste, since it would lower the possibility of human error. I know there are a few products out there that claim to automate workflow, but I've heard that some don't live up to their claims. What experience has anyone had with automation software?
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Jerry,
Thanks for your contribution to the forum. Technology can play a significant role in supporting lean efforts, and I hope that technology providers will take an active role in this forum.
One of the better "recipes" for using automation technologies to support lean is represented by the acronym "USA."
U = understand the process. First, be sure that you understand the process that you will automate. Use process mapping and other tools to create a solid description of the target process.
S = simplify the process. Take a close look at which steps in the process add value and which ones don't. Ask which steps are essential and which ones aren't. Strip out as many of the non-value-adding, non-essential steps as possible.
A = automate, but only after you've simplified the process as much as possible. Automation prior to simplification only automates waste.
