METHODOLOGIES
& TOOLS |
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| The number
of methodologies used by Taskforce&Advisor for designing processes
are 3. The reason is due to the fact that processes
are very complex chains of interconnected activities passing across
the whole company. Therefore, it is necessary to have a step
by step approach allowing to reach a deep and complete description
of each process.
All of the 3 methodologies have the same philosophy, they:
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• Solve problems
or develop opportunities
• Need to define current situation
first then the future one
• Are mapping methodologies
• Work in collaborative mode
• Are project oriented
• Focus on Productivity Management |
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| FLOWmapping
: SeeMap & WeSeeMap |
| SeeMap
is the first methodology that allows you to start designing processes.
In fact, with SeeMap we talk more about flows than
processes because, at this stage, we define processes only at the upper
level.
SeeMap is a methodology, which is simple, easy to learn and easy to
use, and provides a common language for cross-functional exploration
at macro-level. The use of SeeMap methodology, tool
and software (called here WeSeeMap) in small groups
encourages a rich sharing of ideas for joint understanding and the creation
of a shared view; it provides a vehicle for bringing clarity into complex
situations. |
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SeeMap tools kit consists of a set of symbols and conventions
that allow managers to show how information flows within
the organisation, and where there are obstacles in the flow and resulting
business problems. By varying the score of these information road maps,
it is possible to depict the operation of a whole corporation, a division,
a department or even a work group. Through these families of maps, managers
can develop cross-functional perspectives of their
information flows. Here above, some examples where SeeMap has
been used:
• To exploit the knowledge it already possesses
• To drive project management
• To elaborate production planning and control
• To improve performance in creating departmental synergy
• To implement a just-in-time
inventory system
• To implement logistics material flow changes
• To change sales approach
• To be sure that the new
application supports critical business needs
• To merge two existing business operations
• To get full commitment from all your managers to achieve shared
goals |
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Practical applications of SeeMap have shown that
managers have remarked that in 2-3 days, they have
reached clarity on complex issues, dysfunctions and problems which,
under normal circumstances, would have taken them at least 2
months ! |
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| ANALYSISmapping
: AnalysisMapping |
The AnalysisMapping
is the second methodology used for designing the processes. In fact,
it is an especially effective methodology for analysing
and developing a process at the lowest level.
Used by Taskforce&Advisor for its customers, AnalysisMapping identifies
opportunities, dysfunctions or issues and finds out solutions to solve
them. An AnalysisMapping study produces a requirements specification
which ensures that business objectives,
business processes and information flows
are completely aligned.
The teamwork is supported by the Wall Chart Technique and the technique
of the diagonal which stimulates communication
and helps to develop a common understanding of problems, opportunities,
objectives and solutions. The entire wall space is used together with
color-coded cards, depictions and diagrams, which analyse an organisation,
its procedures, its methods, its processes
and its information flows. |
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| PROCESSmapping
: ProcessModel |
The ProcessModel
is the third methodology / tool used for designing the processes. Here,
we do not really design the processes but we model,
simulate and optimize them. ProcessModel
is a powerful tool that allow you to evaluate a new or to modify an
existing process with risk free.
A process model is a process flow diagram that uses associated data
to describe a real-life process as a proof
of concept. Process diagrams consist of objects and connections
which represent process elements and relationships respectively. Associated
with each object and connection is a properties dialog used to describe
the item’s basic attributes. From the properties dialog, you can
identify specific characteristics for each object and clarify the types
of relationships it maintains.
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Process
Model has been integrated into each step of the Six Sigma
methodology. Using the DMAIC methodology and ProcessModel, Johnson
& Johnson streamlined their returns process, minimizing
their cycle times from 98 days to less than 30 days, and increased sales
up to $10 million in a single project. Six Sigma teams within GE,
Motorola, Intuit, Bank of
America, and 3M have selected ProcessModel
as a corporate standard tool too.
ProcessModel is quick and easy to use. It takes only minutes to learn
because it uses basic flowcharting techniques. ProcessModel is useful
for improving all types of business processes including transaction
processing, customer servicing, production
and assembly operations, and transportation
services. |
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