Topics

Process Improvement Michael Wood
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Methodolgies and Formal Processes
Methodologies: The word strikes fear into the hearts of many. Discipline, more work, structure, all the things people try to avoid. But are all methodologies alike? How can you tell a good one from a bad one? In the channel, you will have an opportunity to learn about why methodologies can be a blessing or a curse. You will also learn about how to spot a good Process Improvement method. There are some cool links and more.

Principles and Philosophies
Behind every great movement there are sound principles and philosophies. WOW! Did I say that? Anyway, Process Improvement is just now emerging and maturing. But with that come conflicting schools of thought. Seems everyone gets on the bandwagon and has an opinion. In this channel we will explore some of the principles and philosophies that are shaping the world of process improvement.

Aligning Stakeholders, Strategies and Operations
Okay, this is serious stuff now: The big secret to achieving those stratospheric results with your process improvement initiatives. And you thought it was good tools and that winning personality. Nope, it's all in the alignment of the organization, top to bottom, side to side. Read on and learn about the factors that create alignment within the organization. We will also look at practical approaches to weaving these principles into your PI projects.

Building Constituencies for Change
You can't think process improvement without thinking change. And to achieve positive change in the fastest and least painful way, we need to have support of our management, peers and subordinates. So just how do you go about building the support structure that will allow your process improvement projects to flourish? Curious? See what some experts think.

Tools, Tips and Techniques
Where would we be without our tools and techniques? Every discipline has them, and Process Improvement is no different. Come on in and see what's new under the sun in the confusing world of Tools and Techniques. You will find some interesting links and lots of food for thought.

Identifying Process Improvement Opportunities
So Process Improvement is your passion, or at least your assignment du jour. How do you go about revofnizing project that can help the company achieve its objectives and make your star rise, too? In this channel, we will explore all the angles--from political to good old return on investment. Get ready for some helpful hints.

Project Management
There are some tried and true approaches to Project Management out there, just waiting for you to apply them. Get the 411 on the ABCs of the PMPs. (Say that 10 times...)

Metrics, Estimating and Measurement
Metrics are measurements used to monitor the productivity of all development efforts. By using metrics, you can estimate and plan projects, set goals, motivate and reward people and compare effectiveness of tools and techniques. Metrics establish quality standards, point out areas that are excellent or that need improvement and measure overall efficiency and responsiveness.

Standards and Practices
Everyone has standards. How can you make sure that the quality of work is meeting the standards set by you and your client?

Case Studies
Case studies help us relate theory with real-world experience. In this channel, you will have a chance to see where the rubber meets the road. We will explore the lessons from success and failure. We will pull back the covers to reveal what made the projects work and not work. Maybe you have a story you would like to share. We're all ears, so let us know.