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| Criterion |  Operations Waste Analysis |  Operations Process Mapping |  Operations DMAIC |  Operations A3 Problem Solving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | For a process that keeps people busy but creates little value, the method exposes waste. It directs attention to unnecessary movement, waiting times, rework, and overdelivery. | With a confusing workflow that has many handoffs, the method makes the actual process visible. It shows where work is passed on, delayed, or duplicated, so improvement targets the right spots. | For a process problem with fluctuating performance, the method brings analysis and improvement into a disciplined sequence. It creates a framework in which numbers, causes, and control come together. | For a complex deviation with several people involved, the method bundles problem, analysis, and decision onto one page. It creates a shared working space where causes, countermeasures, and follow-up fit together. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | High | Medium |
Timedifferent | 45-120 min | 1-3 h | 2-12 Wochen | 45-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 2-8 | 3-10 | 3-10 | 2-5 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Waste Map, Prioritized Waste, Improvement Backlog | Process Map, Handoff List, Improvement Backlog | Project Charter, Measurement Plan, Cause Analysis, Control Plan | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis |
Tagsno overlap | WasteLeanProcess improvement | ProcessOperationsImprovement | Continuous improvementQualityProcess improvement | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations |