Six Sigma Swim Lane Training in Mumbai, India

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Six Sigma & A Tale of Swim Lane Process Maps.
Processes are the bread and butter of a lean six sigma corporation. The quality of organizational outcomes and the efficiency in generating those outcomes depend highly on the quality of processes. We have, over the years, learned that there is no end to how much you can optimize lean six sigma processes. A 100% efficiency is a myth, but there is no stopping you from striving for it. One of the ways to maximize your efficiency is process mapping and the use of swimlanes in six sigma. Let us start with discovering what process mapping entails for a lean six sigma corporation.

What is Process Mapping?

Process mapping is an integral tool in any Operational Excellence endeavor such as Lean, Six Sigma, Lean Six Sigma, Kaizen, etc. Process mapping is further categorized into three primary levels, namely High, Mid and Low. A High-level process map, like Macro Maps, is used to visually represent a process in a highly simplified form. However, often, it is not enough, and a more detailed process map is needed to clarify the details. At this point, mid-level maps come into the picture.

 

Six Sigma Swim Lane Training in Mumbai, India

Furthermore, a mid-level process map dives deep into the details of the process outlined by the high-level map. It also identifies waste and defects that can only be realized through intensive discussion-led documentation by the skilled teams who execute the tasks. The areas of work related to waste should not be taken for granted but dealt with promptly as a priority improvement target. In addition to these mid-level maps, there’s an even generated picture called the low-level maps. A low-level process map is an area of a high-level or mid-level process map that has been zoomed in for more details. The main difference between various levels of process maps is that of the scope of the map.

Six Sigma Swim Lane Training in Mumbai, India

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How is a Process Flow Visualized?

A process flow diagram is utilized for a variety of reasons, including detailed illustrations of a process, identifying redundant loops and potential process bottlenecks. Process Flow Diagrams can also help recognize sequential or parallel process steps and much more. Ideally, Process Flow Diagrams are made up of the following elements: Shapes that represent certain types of activities Connecting arrows that indicate the flow of the work unit as it moves through the process Value Add and Non-Value Add markers on process steps A type of process flow map used for specific functional areas, as well as deep detailing for certain processes, is the swim lane diagram.

What are Six Sigma Swim Lanes?

Swim Lanes, also called Functional Process Maps, furnish comprehensive information focused on implementation timelines as well as key personnel. Swim Lane maps include handoffs, relationships, and dependencies that occur between different functional departments. However, you must wonder, why call it Swim Lanes? The functional map derives its name from the horizontal rows, a lookalike of “lanes” similar to an Olympic pool, which are used to designate a group/person, function, or department performing the process steps.

In six sigma swim lanes, handoffs are shown by the flow lines crossing from one horizontal lane to another. This serves very well in illustrating roles and responsibilities in the desired timeframe, including decision-makers. Additionally, Six Sigma Swim Lane Process Maps make an incredible representation of sequential and parallel process steps.

Six Sigma Swim Lane Training in Mumbai, India

The sheer process complexities that can be mapped out with Swim Lanes in six sigma are unparalleled to any other process flow mapping technique. Moreover, six sigma swim lane process maps can also help in identifying flaws. It can depict process hurdles, redundancies, or overly complex areas in function.

It is important to understand that the process timeline is a critical part of the swim lane in six sigma. It ranges from left to right across the swim lane process map providing a precise idea of what step is executed at what point. The map can also be further split into phases, signified by the vertical lanes, as per the needs of the project or the overall process.

Six Sigma Swim Lane Training in Mumbai, India

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Benefits of Using Swim Lanes

Using swim lanes to map out processes can be a key to the success of a Lean Six Sigma project or organization. By mapping out the process from start to finish, the key stakeholders can generate a mutual understanding of the process in consideration, highlight areas of opportunity, and start the dialog of implementing a change to the process. The Benefits of using Swim Lanes are multiple, but a few of them relevant to lean six sigma include:
Useful in identifying redundancies, problem areas, and inefficiencies in a process.
Actively identifies all key personnel and timelines in a process.
It is great for training new employees on a process.

Here’s a case study on how Swim lanes were used during the pandemic: (Check out from the trusted source)

Swim Lanes for You

Often, a swim lane map can become extremely complex. To simplify the map, using a high-level breakdown into phases or categories with the idea of helping those new to the map to understand it clearly. An even better way is to take the help of six sigma expert consultants who provide a detailed and structured approach to implementing the technique for your organization. In addition, it is always recommended that you organize swim lane training for your teams to ensure they are at par with all process developments. If you are looking for a service provider in your cities, such as swim lane training in Mumbai or your country, for example, swim lane training in India, you must ensure that you choose a reputed provider. Swim lanes, as demonstrated, are critical to your success and must be delivered by those who can design them best as well as train your teams accordingly.

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ARROWHEAD is a consulting services firm with emphasis on reducing all LEAN wastes and improving consistency through Six-Sigma concepts.

By reducing Lean waste, you can remove all non-value added activities thereby improving speed of reaching your customer at better margin and by improving consistency you are able to meet customer demand in terms of quality expected.

We are based in Mumbai, India with clients spread across USA, UK, India and S.E. Asia.

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