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Process Improvement

Certification

4.6 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 3,744 ratings
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Robert Chapman

Improving your organisation's processes is something that is becoming increasingly important. As we move forward, organisations are building more and more processes, all with varying purposes, touching various departments and delivering various products. As these become more complex and organisations grow, having the knowledge of how to amend, improve and secure these processes is a skill becoming vital. If you can deliver such improvements to your organisation's processes today, they will reward this favourably.

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Improving your organisation's processes is something that is becoming increasingly important. As we move forward, organisations are building more and more processes, all with varying purposes, touching various departments and delivering various products. As these become more complex and organisations grow, having the knowledge of how to amend, improve and secure these processes is a skill becoming vital. If you can deliver such improvements to your organisation's processes today, they will reward this favourably.

In this course, you will learn the fundamental building blocks behind the task of process improvement, the best process mapping tools available and when these should be deployed. Every process map has a purpose, so this course will show you which one to use when.

We will cover:

- The fundamentals behind process improvement and the types of process to look out for.

- How to identify, question and change value and and non-value add steps.

- The main processes we need to build during a process improvement initiative.

- A breakdown of the key types of process and process analysis terms you will need to understand.

- The process to be followed to ensure successful deliverance of process improvement projects and demonstrations of how to deliver each step.

- A LIVE demonstration of a process improvement and a case study example of how a process improvement project was delivered.

- A complete process mapping toolkit, with LIVE demonstrations on how to use each one - with templates attached for those which require it.

- We will test your knowledge with quizzes and an assignment.

At the end of this course, you should have the confidence not only to conduct wide ranging process improvement projects but also to sell the vision and importance of process improvement to leaders within your organisation.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How to improve your organization's processes
  • How to reform, reengineer and redesign business processes
  • How to identify value and opportunities within your processes and realise them
  • How to reduce time and cost waste within your processes
  • You will be able to save your organization significant amounts of time and effort by reducing waste
  • You will be able to save your organization significant amounts of money, where possible, by improving all of your processes so well
  • You will know how to engage with your stakeholders and process experts, improving your personable skills
  • You will understand how to identify problems and issues, fixing these and adding in the right controls
  • You will be able to transform operational performance, reduce errors, improve customer satisfaction, influence your product quality etc.
  • You will have the right level of knowledge to impress and influence your leadership and colleagues by making well thought through, positive changes instantly
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Syllabus

Introduction

In this video, we will look at what will be covered within this course.

A quick disclaimer before we begin.

In this video, we will look at what the purpose of this course is.

Read more

In this video, we will discuss exactly what process improvement is.

In this video, we will look through a range of examples of what process improvement actually looks like.

In this video, we will explore the importance of process improvement and why you should pursue it.

In this video, we will explore the different types of triggers of process improvement there are.

In this video, we will run over the answers of the exercise.

In this video, we will look over the must happen indicators of process improvement.

In this video, we will introduce and explore the process map.

In this video, we will explore the term value add.

In this video, we will explore the term non-value add.

In this video, we will explore the term non-value add but necessary.

In this video, we will test your knowledge of what has been covered off in this section.

In this video, we will introduce the 3 key types of process we see within process improvement.

In this video, we will discuss the as-is type of process.

In this video, we will discuss the to-be type of process.

In this video, we will discuss the realised type of process.

In this video, we will go through a high level overview of the key process analysis terms within process improvement.

In this video, we will explore the concept of takt time.

In this video, we will explore the concept of cycle time.

In this video, we will explore the concept of lead time.

In this video, we will explore the concept of bottleneck.

In this video, we will explore the concept of rework loop.

In this video, we will explore the process analysis terms using an interactive activity.

In this video, we will look at a high level overview of the process to deliver process improvements.

In this video we will look at the importance of identifying the process.

In this video we will look at the importance of mapping the as-is process.

In this video, we will analyse the as-is process map in more detail.

In this video we will look at the importance of identifying the value-add and non value-add steps.

In this video, we will analyse our process from a value and non-value add perspective.

In this video we will look at the importance of mapping the to-be process.

In this video we will look at the importance of conducting a gap analysis.

In this video we will look at the importance of mapping the realised process.

In this video we will look at the importance of testing the new process.

In this video we will look at the importance of providing wider updates at the end of this process.

A 5 question quiz to test your understanding of what has just been covered.

In this video, we will understand what this section will entail.

In this video, we will explore the features of this map.

In this video, we will explore how to build this map.

In this video, we will discuss the types of questions you should be asking in a mapping workshop.

In this video, we will run through the first demonstration.

In this video, we will run through the second demonstration.

In this video, we will discuss the types of questions you should be asking in a discussions workshop.

In this video, we will explore how to build out this map.

In this video, we will discuss the types of questions you should be asking in an improvement workshop.

In this video, we will explore the second demonstration.

In this video, we will explore the features of this map.

In this video, we will explore how to build this map.

In this video, we will run through demonstration 1.

In this video, we will run through demonstration 2.

In this video, we will explore how to build out this map.

In this video, we will run through demonstration 1.

In this video, we will run through demonstration 2.

In this video, we will run through our first demonstration.

In this video, we will run through our second demonstration.

In this video, we will look at a matrix of when to use the process mapping tools.

In this video, we will look at the 8 wastes from a high level.

In this video, we will explore the transport waste.

In this video, we will explore the inventory waste.

In this video, we will explore the motion waste.

In this video, we will explore the waiting waste.

In this video, we will explore the overproduction waste.

In this video, we will explore the overprocessing waste.

In this video, we will explore the defects waste.

In this video, we will explore the skills waste.

In this video, we will explore the 8 wastes through an interactive activity.

In this video, we will discuss the set up expected from a mapping workshop.

In this video, we will discuss the set up expected from a discussions workshop.

In this video, we will discuss the set up expected from a improvement workshop.

In this video, we will discuss the logistics around a physical workshop with a screen.

In this video, we will discuss the logistics around a physical workshop with a whiteboard.

In this video, we will discuss the logistics around a digital workshop.

In this video, we will introduce the need to ask the right questions in the workshop.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a complete process mapping toolkit, including live demonstrations and templates, which is highly practical for immediate application in real-world scenarios
Covers the fundamentals of process improvement, including identifying value and non-value add steps, which builds a strong foundation for beginners in the field
Explores the 8 wastes in detail, which is a core concept in Lean methodologies and essential for effective process optimization
Includes a live demonstration of a process improvement project and a case study, which offers valuable insights into practical implementation
Teaches how to engage with stakeholders and process experts, improving personable skills, which is crucial for successful project delivery and organizational buy-in
Requires learners to understand the differences between as-is, to-be, and realized processes, which may require some prior exposure to process analysis concepts

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Reviews summary

Practical process improvement certification

According to learners, this course provides practical insights and a solid foundation in process improvement. Students particularly praise the clear explanations and well-structured content, noting the real-world applicability of the material. The section on process mapping tools, supported by live demonstrations and templates, is frequently highlighted as a valuable resource. While many found it an excellent starting point or refresher, a few learners felt it could benefit from more advanced depth on certain topics. Overall, the reviews suggest a largely positive experience, equipping students with actionable strategies to improve processes within their organizations.
Provides a solid starting point.
"Excellent introduction to process improvement, covering all the essential basics."
"It's a solid foundation, though maybe not for someone already an expert in Lean Six Sigma."
"Good as a refresher, but might want to supplement for really deep dives."
Instructor is clear and engaging.
"The instructor is very knowledgeable and explains things in a relatable way."
"Found the instructor's delivery engaging and easy to listen to."
"Clearly passionate about process improvement and conveyed the material effectively."
Templates and demos are helpful.
"The process mapping toolkit section was fantastic, especially the live demos and templates."
"Learning how to use the different mapping tools was a major takeaway."
"The demonstrations for building the maps were incredibly helpful for understanding."
Well-organized and easy to follow.
"The lectures were very clear and easy to follow, breaking down complex ideas."
"Loved the structure, it flowed logically from fundamentals to application."
"The course is paced perfectly, allowing time to digest the information before moving on."
Gain practical skills for work.
"I could immediately apply the concepts learned to improve processes at my job."
"This course gave me actionable steps to identify waste and streamline workflows, saving significant time."
"Great course for gaining practical skills you can use right away in your organization."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Process Improvement: Certification with these activities:
Review Lean Manufacturing Principles
Reinforce foundational knowledge of Lean principles, which are heavily related to process improvement and waste reduction.
Browse courses on Lean Manufacturing
Show steps
  • Review the seven wastes of Lean.
  • Study the principles of continuous improvement.
  • Practice identifying waste in everyday processes.
Read 'Gemba Kaizen' by Masaaki Imai
Learn about Kaizen principles and how to apply them to achieve continuous process improvement.
View Gemba Kaizen: A Commonsense, Low-Cost Approach... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read a chapter of the book.
  • Identify key Kaizen concepts.
  • Consider how to apply Kaizen in your work.
Read 'The Goal' by Eliyahu M. Goldratt
Understand the Theory of Constraints through a narrative that makes the concepts more accessible and memorable.
View The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement -... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read a section of the book.
  • Reflect on the concepts presented.
  • Relate the concepts to real-world scenarios.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Map a Current Process
Apply process mapping techniques learned in the course to a real-world process within your organization or personal life.
Show steps
  • Select a process to map.
  • Gather data on the process steps.
  • Create an 'as-is' process map.
  • Identify areas for improvement.
Waste Identification Exercises
Reinforce your ability to identify the eight wastes (TIMWOODS) in various scenarios to improve process efficiency.
Show steps
  • Review the definitions of each waste.
  • Analyze case studies to identify wastes.
  • Practice identifying wastes in your workplace.
Develop a Process Improvement Proposal
Synthesize course knowledge to create a formal proposal outlining a specific process improvement initiative.
Show steps
  • Identify a process needing improvement.
  • Analyze the current process and its inefficiencies.
  • Propose a 'to-be' process with specific changes.
  • Estimate the potential benefits of the improvement.
  • Present the proposal to stakeholders.
Create a Process Improvement Blog
Solidify your understanding of process improvement by creating and maintaining a blog where you share insights, case studies, and best practices.
Show steps
  • Choose a blogging platform.
  • Develop a content calendar.
  • Write and publish regular blog posts.
  • Promote your blog to relevant audiences.

Career center

Learners who complete Process Improvement: Certification will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Continuous Improvement Specialist
A continuous improvement specialist is dedicated to identifying and implementing improvements across an organization. A continuous improvement specialist uses various methodologies to analyze processes, identify inefficiencies, and implement solutions for optimization. This Process Improvement: Certification course builds the tools for a continuous improvement specialist to effectively map, analyze, and improve processes. The course could be of particular benefit to those working to instill a culture of continuous improvement within their organizations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Continuous Improvement Specialist
Industrial Engineer
An industrial engineer improves efficiency by analyzing and designing integrated systems and processes. An industrial engineer works to optimize resource allocation, reduce waste, and enhance productivity. The Process Improvement: Certification course imparts methods for process mapping, analysis, and redesign that are indispensable for an industrial engineer. The course's real-world examples and demonstrations augment the practical skills needed. An industrial engineer with process improvement skills is more competitive.
See salaries and explore the career path for Industrial Engineer
Process Engineer
A process engineer designs, develops, and optimizes industrial processes to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Process engineers analyze existing processes, identify areas for improvement, and implement changes to enhance productivity and quality. The Process Improvement: Certification course will assist a process engineer with the methodologies for process mapping, waste reduction, and value stream analysis. The course's coverage of process analysis terms is beneficial. Those aspiring to become process engineers might consider this course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Process Engineer
Business Analyst
A business analyst focuses on improving an organization's processes by understanding business needs, gathering data, and recommending solutions. A business analyst identifies areas for process enhancement, documents current processes, and designs improved workflows. This Process Improvement: Certification course helps further develop a business analyst's capability to pinpoint areas of inefficiency and implement effective solutions. The course content on process mapping and analysis is very relevant. Someone wishing to become a business analyst should take this course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst
Operations Analyst
An operations analyst works to improve organizational efficiency through process analysis and optimization. An operations analyst identifies bottlenecks, streamlines workflows, and implements solutions to boost productivity and reduce costs. This Process Improvement: Certification course helps an operations analyst learn methodologies for process mapping, waste reduction, and value stream analysis. With this course, operations analysts gain knowledge about identifying both value and non-value adding steps in a process.
See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Analyst
Management Consultant
A management consultant advises organizations on how to improve performance and efficiency, often focusing on process optimization. Management consultants analyze existing processes, identify areas of weakness, and recommend strategies for improvement. This Process Improvement: Certification course is useful as it introduces methodologies for process mapping and waste reduction. The course's focus on identifying value added and non-value added steps is essential for any management consultant. Those who want to become management consultants may find this course very helpful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Management Consultant
Supply Chain Analyst
A supply chain analyst optimizes the flow of goods, information, and finances across the supply chain. A supply chain analyst identifies areas for process improvement to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance customer satisfaction. The Process Improvement: Certification course develops skills in process mapping and waste reduction that can be used to streamline supply chain operations. The course's focus on identifying bottlenecks aids in enhancing supply chain performance. This course may be helpful for aspiring supply chain analysts.
See salaries and explore the career path for Supply Chain Analyst
IT Project Manager
An IT project manager oversees the planning, execution, and delivery of technology-based projects, often involving upgrades or process improvements. An IT project manager needs to have a firm grasp of process workflows and how to implement improvements effectively within IT systems. This Process Improvement: Certification course helps an IT project manager enhance their ability to streamline project workflows, mitigate risks, and ensure successful project outcomes. The course's demonstration of process mapping and analysis techniques is relevant.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Project Manager
Quality Assurance Manager
A quality assurance manager oversees the development and implementation of processes to ensure that products or services meet established quality standards. A quality assurance manager identifies areas for improvement in existing processes and implements changes to enhance quality. The Process Improvement: Certification course helps with building the skills to identify and rectify inefficiencies in processes, ensuring they meet the required quality benchmarks. The modules on waste identification and process mapping makes this course a potentially worthwhile choice for those in quality assurance roles.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Manager
Operations Manager
An operations manager is responsible for ensuring the efficient and effective operation of an organization's processes. Operations managers analyze workflows, identify bottlenecks, and implement process improvements to optimize productivity and reduce costs. The Process Improvement: Certification course helps with the practical skills needed to analyze and improve operational processes. The course helps build a foundation for continuous improvement and efficiency gains, which are core responsibilities of any operations manager. This course may be useful for those aspiring to become operations managers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Manager
Project Manager
A project manager is responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects, often involving process changes or improvements. A project manager needs to understand process flows and how to implement changes effectively to deliver successful project outcomes. This Process Improvement: Certification course will enhance a project manager's ability to streamline project workflows and deliver projects efficiently. The course's emphasis on stakeholder engagement allows a project manager to effectively manage team members.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Compliance Officer
A compliance officer ensures that an organization adheres to regulatory requirements and internal policies, optimizing related processes. A compliance officer must understand process workflows and identify areas where improvements can enhance compliance. The Process Improvement: Certification course helps a compliance officer analyze and improve processes to ensure they meet required standards and regulations. This course could be particularly useful in streamlining compliance procedures. Aspiring compliance officers may value this course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Compliance Officer
Data Analyst
A data analyst collects, cleans, and analyzes data to provide insights that support decision-making, including process improvements. Data analysts identify trends and patterns in data to pinpoint inefficiencies and opportunities for optimization. This Process Improvement: Certification course may broaden a data analyst's understanding of process mapping and analysis techniques. Understanding the impact of change on processes can allow data analysts to integrate quantitative results with qualitative improvements.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Financial Analyst
A financial analyst provides insights that support decision-making, including process improvements. A financial analyst identifies trends and patterns in data to pinpoint inefficiencies and opportunities for optimization. The Process Improvement: Certification course may augment a financial analyst's understanding of process mapping and analysis techniques. Understanding the financial impact of process improvements allows a financial analyst to integrate quantitative results with qualitative improvements.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst
Business Development Manager
A business development manager identifies and pursues new business opportunities. A business development manager also creates strategies that enable growth and improve an organization's competitive advantage. The Process Improvement: Certification course may help a business development manager identify process improvements that enhance efficiency and attract potential clients. The course's instruction on how to identify and eliminate waste allows a business development manager to improve internal operations and present a more appealing image to stakeholders.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Development Manager

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Process Improvement: Certification.
Cover image
Gemba Kaizen: A Commonsense, Low-Cost Approach to...
Save
Introduces the concept of Kaizen, a Japanese philosophy of continuous improvement. It emphasizes the importance of involving all employees in the improvement process and focusing on small, incremental changes. It's a valuable resource for understanding the cultural and organizational aspects of process improvement. This book provides a broader perspective on continuous improvement and employee engagement.
Gemba Kaizen: A Commonsense, Low-Cost Approach to...
Paperback
Check
Gemba Kaizen: A Commonsense, Low-Cost Approach to...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Goal
Save
Business novel that illustrates the principles of process improvement through the story of a struggling manufacturing plant. It provides an engaging and accessible way to understand the Theory of Constraints and how to identify and eliminate bottlenecks. The book is highly recommended for anyone involved in process improvement, as it offers practical insights and a compelling narrative. It is often used as a supplementary text in operations management and process improvement courses.
The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement - 30th...
Paperback
$$
The Goal: Excellence In Manufacturing
Paperback
$$$$
(日本語) The Goal, Second Revised Edition
Tankobon Softcover
$$
The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement
Paperback
$$$
The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement
Kindle Edition
$$

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Rating
4.6 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
11 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Robert Chapman
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a complete process mapping toolkit, including live demonstrations and templates, which is highly practical for immediate application in real-world scenarios
Covers the fundamentals of process improvement, including identifying value and non-value add steps, which builds a strong foundation for beginners in the field
Explores the 8 wastes in detail, which is a core concept in Lean methodologies and essential for effective process optimization
Includes a live demonstration of a process improvement project and a case study, which offers valuable insights into practical implementation
Teaches how to engage with stakeholders and process experts, improving personable skills, which is crucial for successful project delivery and organizational buy-in
Requires learners to understand the differences between as-is, to-be, and realized processes, which may require some prior exposure to process analysis concepts
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