Learn, Solve, Save with PDCA

Why do we need to use a continuous improvement methodology? Look how Dave Snowden of Cognitive Edge describes creativity and innovation:

Starvation, Pressure, Perspective Shift

However, when you have a passion for a project, look at Michael McDaniel , a senior designer at frog design. Prior to joining frog design in 2008 as a Senior Designer, he worked on large, diverse teams to solve complex interaction, experience, transportation, wayfinding, environmental, and branding problems for a variety of industries.

His Motto:

Learn what problems keep reoccurring.
Solve permanent long term solutions.
Save Lives the next time this happens.

Learn, Solve, Save

In Michael’s example we can see the starvation of resource, the pressure(passion to do something about it) and maybe more importantly the shift in perspective. Lean Thinking, PDCA can really assist someone in creating that shift. Using a structured approach enables each element of the decision or problem to be considered; systematically and sufficiently. The outcome is almost always more complete and more effective than one done instinctively.

BTW: Problem solving can be a lot of fun when done on a regular basis versus only under panic conditions. The panic approached in Michael’s video resulted in the Astrodome being the best alternative even with a problem that has been reoccurring for years.