Improvement Techniques and Control Tools from Coursera

This course introduces you to the processes and tools to implement the improvement strategies and then sustain them by controlling your process as per the implemented solutions. Based on the analysis from the previous phases of the define, measure, analyze, improve, and control (DMAIC) framework, you will learn to evaluate the potential solutions and select the most effective ones to bring improvement to your process. This may involve changing the process, introducing new tools or technologies, or implementing best practices. The course also delves into the importance of continuously refining and optimizing the process to maximize the impact of the improvement solutions.

Further, you will learn how to establish control measures to monitor the process and ensure it stays on track after the improvements are implemented. Finally, the course delves into the criticality of sustaining the implemented improvements for long-term benefit. You will learn how to implement mechanisms to sustain the improvements, such as conducting employee training, regular measurement practices, periodic reviews, and continuous improvement efforts.

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Syllabus

Lean tools and techniques for process improvement

In this module, you will be introduced to the core principles and methodologies of Lean thinking. You will gain insight into essential Lean tools and techniques such as the five Ss (5S), 5S plus safety, and 6S and single-minute exchange of die (SMED), enabling you to lead process improvement initiatives within your organizations successfully. You will learn to implement SMED, a Lean tool used in manufacturing, to decrease the equipment changeover time. Additionally, you will be introduced to 5S, another Lean tool that represents the steps needed to accomplish this objective, namely, sort, set, shine, standardize, and sustain. The key objective of 5S is to create an uncluttered environment that enables people to carry out their job responsibilities without wasting time and reducing the risk of injury.

Lean Tools: Essentials of poka-yoke

This module introduces you to another powerful and effective Lean tool, poka-yoke, which was developed as a key component of the Toyota Production System (TPS). Poka-yoke is a process improvement technique, literally meaning “avoiding mistakes or errors.” It was developed in the 1960s by Shigeo Shingo. This technique significantly decreases the number of defects produced and is also known as error-proofing. In this module, you will learn about some real-life examples of poka-yoke and how to implement this technique by eliminating opportunities for defects or errors.

Eight types of wastes

In this module, you will learn about the concept of the eight wastes or 8 forms of waste, which is a fundamental Lean manufacturing and Six Sigma principle. The various non-value-added activities and inefficiencies within a process are known as the eight types of waste. Finding and reducing or eliminating these wastes can cut down your organization’s costs, chances of accidents, and lead times and make both employees and end customers happier. Waste reduction is a fundamental concept in Lean Six Sigma, and this module will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to improve efficiency, productivity, and quality within your process and organization.

Control Charts

In this module, you will gain an overview of control charts and their application in process monitoring and quality control. Control charts determine if a process is in control or is stable or if it is out of control and requires some adjustment. Control charts are beneficial for your organization as you need to take some action to correct the variations that could have a negative impact on your business. You will learn about specific control charts for continuous data and how to create and interpret these charts, analyze patterns, and make data-driven decisions to improve process stability and performance. The module combines theoretical knowledge with practical exercises and case studies to equip you with the skills to implement control charts in various industries.

Peer-Reviewed Assignment

In this module, you will work on a peer-review assignment, which is based on the concepts taught in the Improvement Techniques and Control Tools course. In this assignment, you will apply your knowledge about Poka-Yoke to identify how various Poka-Yoke techniques are used in real life. This will encourage you to look around and study from examples in everyday life.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Examines how to identify and address errors in processes, which is essential for enhancing efficiency within an organization

Involves course instructors who have direct experience working with process improvement techniques in various industries

Develops skills in identifying and eliminating waste, improving efficiency, productivity, and overall quality

Provides a practical approach to improving processes, enabling learners to apply the techniques to their own organizations

Content may overlap with other courses on process improvement, so it may not provide unique insights for those with prior knowledge

Course materials may not cover the most recent advancements in process improvement techniques

Career center

Learners who complete Improvement Techniques and Control Tools will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Continuous Improvement Manager

Continuous Improvement Managers are responsible for leading and managing process improvement initiatives within an organization. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including Lean and Six Sigma, to identify and eliminate waste and improve efficiency. This course provides a strong foundation in Lean and Six Sigma, which are essential for success in this role. The course also covers topics such as control charts and poka-yoke, which are important for monitoring and improving processes.

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Operations Manager

Operations Managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the operations of an organization. They use a variety of tools and techniques to improve efficiency and productivity. This course provides a strong foundation in Lean and Six Sigma, which are essential for success in this role. The course also covers topics such as control charts and poka-yoke, which are important for monitoring and improving processes.

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Quality Engineer

Quality Engineers are responsible for ensuring the quality of products and services. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including Lean and Six Sigma, to identify and eliminate defects. This course provides a strong foundation in Lean and Six Sigma, which are essential for success in this role. The course also covers topics such as control charts and poka-yoke, which are important for monitoring and improving quality.

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Process Engineer

Process Engineers are responsible for designing and improving processes in a variety of industries. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including Lean and Six Sigma, to identify and eliminate waste. This course provides a strong foundation in Lean and Six Sigma, which are essential for success in this role. The course also covers topics such as control charts and poka-yoke, which are important for monitoring and improving processes.

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Industrial Engineer

Industrial Engineers are responsible for designing and improving industrial processes. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including Lean and Six Sigma, to identify and eliminate waste. This course provides a strong foundation in Lean and Six Sigma, which are essential for success in this role. The course also covers topics such as control charts and poka-yoke, which are important for monitoring and improving industrial processes.

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Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing Engineers are responsible for designing and improving manufacturing processes. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including Lean and Six Sigma, to identify and eliminate waste. This course provides a strong foundation in Lean and Six Sigma, which are essential for success in this role. The course also covers topics such as control charts and poka-yoke, which are important for monitoring and improving manufacturing processes.

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Consultant

Consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on a variety of topics, including process improvement. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including Lean and Six Sigma, to help organizations identify and eliminate waste. This course provides a strong foundation in Lean and Six Sigma, which are essential for success in this role. The course also covers topics such as control charts and poka-yoke, which are important for monitoring and improving processes.

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Project Manager

Project Managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and executing projects. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including Lean and Six Sigma, to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality. This course provides a strong foundation in Lean and Six Sigma, which are essential for success in this role. The course also covers topics such as control charts and poka-yoke, which are important for monitoring and improving project performance.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts are responsible for analyzing business processes and identifying opportunities for improvement. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including Lean and Six Sigma, to help organizations improve their efficiency and productivity. This course provides a strong foundation in Lean and Six Sigma, which are essential for success in this role. The course also covers topics such as control charts and poka-yoke, which are important for monitoring and improving business processes.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to help organizations make informed decisions. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including Lean and Six Sigma, to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of data analysis. This course provides a strong foundation in Lean and Six Sigma, which are essential for success in this role. The course also covers topics such as control charts and poka-yoke, which are important for monitoring and improving data analysis processes.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including Lean and Six Sigma, to improve the quality and efficiency of software development. This course provides a strong foundation in Lean and Six Sigma, which are essential for success in this role. The course also covers topics such as control charts and poka-yoke, which are important for monitoring and improving software development processes.

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Quality Assurance Analyst

Quality Assurance Analysts are responsible for testing and evaluating software applications to ensure that they meet quality standards. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including Lean and Six Sigma, to improve the quality and efficiency of software testing. This course provides a strong foundation in Lean and Six Sigma, which are essential for success in this role. The course also covers topics such as control charts and poka-yoke, which are important for monitoring and improving software testing processes.

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Human Resources Manager

Human Resources Managers are responsible for managing the human resources of an organization. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including Lean and Six Sigma, to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of human resources management. This course provides a strong foundation in Lean and Six Sigma, which are essential for success in this role. The course also covers topics such as control charts and poka-yoke, which are important for monitoring and improving human resources management processes.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers are responsible for writing and editing technical documentation, such as user manuals, white papers, and marketing materials. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including Lean and Six Sigma, to improve the quality and efficiency of technical writing. This course provides a strong foundation in Lean and Six Sigma, which are essential for success in this role. The course also covers topics such as control charts and poka-yoke, which are important for monitoring and improving technical writing processes.

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Trainer

Trainers are responsible for teaching and training employees on a variety of topics. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including Lean and Six Sigma, to improve the quality and efficiency of training. This course provides a strong foundation in Lean and Six Sigma, which are essential for success in this role. The course also covers topics such as control charts and poka-yoke, which are important for monitoring and improving training processes.

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Improvement Techniques and Control Tools

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