Understand the principles of Lean Management and Six Sigma Quality.

L7 Process Improvement & Lean Management

Module Leader: xxxxxxxxx

Key Details and Requirements 

Submission deadline: Thursday 01 February 2024, no later than 16:30pm (UK local time)

Learning outcomes:

1. Understand the principles of Lean Management and Six Sigma Quality.

2. Ability and understanding of how to carry out Process Improvement.

3. Ability and understanding of how to use Lean and Improvement tools to identify and solve process problems.

4. Critical application and understanding of how to apply Lean and Improvement techniques in real-world environment.

5. Synthesise and critically evaluate lean improvement methodologies and have an understanding of how they are linked to environmental, social and governance factors in sustainability.

Assessment details: Individual written report, 100% (2,500 words +/-10%).

The word count does not include references, any table of contents and Executive Summary (the Executive Summary should be within 400 words though). Appendices are also outside the main word count but should not be more than two pages.

Referencing: Students are expected to use Harvard Referencing throughout their assignments where required. Please follow the Harvard Referencing Handbook for all your assignments at the ULBS.

Submission Method: Turnitin - Your work will be put through Turnitin. All submissions will be electronically checked for plagiarism and the use of AI software.

You have the option to upload your work ahead of the deadline, more than once. ULBS will be reviewing your last submission only. You can only upload one file. For example, if your work contains a word document and power point slides/Excel spreadsheet you will need to copy your slides/spreadsheet into the Word document. Understand the principles of Lean Management and Six Sigma Quality.You need to develop a process map for distribution of the Covid 19 vaccine from the factory to where you were living in 2020/21

ULBS Assessment Office Contact Details

The ULBS Assessment Office are here to help should you have any non-academic questions related to your assessments. You can contact them at Ulbs- assessments@law.ac.uk

Note: Keep in mind that self-plagiarism (when you reuse your own specific wording and ideas from work that you have previously submitted without referencing yourself) is also a form of plagiarism and is not allowed.

The assignment is a report.

1) You need to develop a process map for distribution of the Covid 19 vaccine from the factory to where you were living in 2020/21.

2) You need to explore how lean management could have improved the process. You may use your own experience as well as published information (official sources/ media) to set up the analysis. You should seek to draw on different approaches, principles, and concepts that you have studied in the course to provide creative, well thought out and practical improvements.

You must use course concepts and frameworks discussed in the module in preparation of this assignment.

Suggested Submission Format

  • Executive Summary – this is a summary of “what you did”; how and “what you found out”. Usually, you write this when everything else is done.
  • Introduction– this introduces your report as well as providing background to the situation.
  • Improvement Objectives – what are the issues/aspects you seek to deliver suggestions/solutions to?
  • Concepts and techniques in analysis – what specific concepts underpin your analysis and why did you choose these?
  • Analysis using concepts/techniques – this is where you demonstrate your understanding of the concepts and draw out findings (Application of Knowledge).
  • Conclusions – this is where you summarise the findings from your analysis and based on the analysis, note what processes should be improved.
  • Recommendations – put forward your recommended process improvements and demonstrate what benefits your proposed improvement/suggestions will deliver.
  • References – Harvard style as required by the University. will be marked.

Plagiarised (Do not copy)

 

 

Executive Summary

This report analyzes the distribution process of the Covid-19 vaccine from the factory to the local area in 2020/21, applying principles of Lean Management and Six Sigma Quality. It identifies key issues in the process and suggests improvements using Lean tools and techniques. The analysis reveals significant inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement in areas such as transportation, storage, and communication. Recommendations include implementing a streamlined logistics system, enhancing communication channels, and adopting real-time tracking technologies to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the vaccine distribution process.

Introduction

The Covid-19 pandemic necessitated the rapid development and distribution of vaccines globally. Effective distribution was critical to ensure timely delivery and administration of the vaccine. This report focuses on the distribution process of the Covid-19 vaccine from the manufacturing facility to the local area where I resided in 2020/21. The analysis aims to identify inefficiencies and propose improvements using Lean Management and Six Sigma principles.

Improvement Objectives

The primary objectives of this report are:

  • To identify inefficiencies in the vaccine distribution process.
  • To propose improvements based on Lean Management principles.
  • To enhance the overall effectiveness and efficiency of the distribution process.

Concepts and Techniques in Analysis

The analysis employs several Lean Management and Six Sigma concepts, including:

  • Value Stream Mapping (VSM): To visualize the current distribution process and identify non-value-added activities.
  • 5S Methodology: To improve organization and efficiency in the storage and handling of vaccines.
  • Kaizen: For continuous improvement through small, incremental changes.
  • DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control): To systematically approach process improvement.

Analysis Using Concepts/Techniques

Value Stream Mapping (VSM)

By mapping the entire distribution process, we identified several bottlenecks, including delays in transportation, inadequate storage facilities, and inefficient communication channels.

5S Methodology

Applying the 5S methodology highlighted areas for improvement in the organization and cleanliness of storage facilities, leading to better inventory management and reduced waste.

Kaizen

Small, continuous improvements were proposed for various stages of the process, such as optimizing delivery routes and enhancing training programs for personnel involved in the distribution.

DMAIC

  • Define: Clearly define the goals and scope of the distribution process.
  • Measure: Collect data on current performance metrics, such as delivery times and vaccine wastage rates.
  • Analyze: Identify root causes of inefficiencies using tools like Fishbone Diagrams and Pareto Analysis.
  • Improve: Develop and implement solutions, such as real-time tracking systems and improved coordination among stakeholders.
  • Control: Establish control mechanisms to sustain improvements, including regular audits and performance reviews.

Conclusions

The analysis revealed significant inefficiencies in the Covid-19 vaccine distribution process, particularly in areas related to transportation, storage, and communication. By applying Lean Management and Six Sigma principles, these inefficiencies can be addressed, resulting in a more streamlined and effective distribution process.

Recommendations

  • Implement Real-Time Tracking: Adopt GPS and RFID technologies to monitor the location and condition of vaccine shipments in real time.
  • Enhance Communication: Improve communication channels between manufacturers, distributors, and local health authorities to ensure timely updates and coordination.
  • Optimize Transportation: Use data analytics to optimize delivery routes and schedules, reducing delays and ensuring vaccines reach their destinations promptly.
  • Improve Storage Facilities: Upgrade storage facilities to ensure proper temperature control and organization, minimizing the risk of vaccine spoilage.
  • Regular Training: Conduct regular training sessions for all personnel involved in the distribution process to ensure they are aware of best practices and procedures.

References

  • Bicheno, J., & Holweg, M. (2016). The Lean Toolbox: The Essential Guide to Lean Transformation. Picsie Books.
  • Liker, J. K. (2004). The Toyota Way: 14 Management Principles from the World`s Greatest Manufacturer. McGraw-Hill.
  • Womack, J. P., Jones, D. T., & Roos, D. (1990). The Machine That Changed the World. Free Press.
  • George, M. L. (2002). Lean Six Sigma: Combining Six Sigma Quality with Lean Production Speed. McGraw-Hill.

                                                                                                                                            

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