Process Improvement Flashcards

Which tool is most useful for identifying the root cause of a recurring defect by asking 'why' repeatedly?

Answer: 5 Whys

The 5 Whys technique drills down to root causes by iteratively asking why a problem occurred.

A process improvement team wants to reduce cycle time. Which lean concept directly targets the elimination of non-value-added waiting?

Answer: Muda elimination

Muda (waste) elimination in lean targets non-value-added activities including waiting, overproduction, and excess motion.

When mapping a process with a flowchart, a diamond shape typically represents:

Answer: A decision point

In standard flowchart notation, a diamond symbol denotes a decision point with two or more possible outcomes.

Which DMAIC phase focuses on identifying, validating, and selecting the root cause of a problem?

Answer: Analyze

The Analyze phase uses data and tools like fishbone diagrams and 5 Whys to identify and confirm root causes.

A team notices that 20% of their product types account for 80% of customer complaints. This is an example of:

Answer: The Pareto principle

The Pareto principle (80/20 rule) states that roughly 80% of effects come from 20% of causes.

Which of the following best describes a 'pilot' in the context of process improvement?

Answer: A small-scale test of a proposed solution

A pilot is a small-scale, controlled trial of a proposed change before full implementation to test feasibility and effectiveness.

In a value stream map, 'push' production means:

Answer: Products are made based on forecasted demand and pushed forward

Push production schedules work based on forecasts and pushes output to the next stage regardless of actual demand, often creating inventory buildup.