1. Analyze the existing process
2. Locate the issues
3. Redesign the process
4. Create an implementation team
5. Implement the new process
6. Review and adjust the process as needed

A bad process results in workflow bottlenecks, missed deadlines, incomplete data, and, worst of all, wasted resources. If your organization is struggling with efficiency, it’s time to make improvements in the steps you take to reach your goals. Process improvement is a long-term initiative that improves the way an organization works.
So, how do you create a plan to improve your processes?

1. Analyze the existing process

The first step in creating your plan is to analyze the existing process that’s affecting your organization badly.
For example, a process that involves getting manager approval may require two or three separate steps:
sending something for approval, making adjustments based on manager feedback, and receiving approval.

2. Locate the issues

Highlight the steps where issues occur on a regular basis. Issues can include bottlenecks, too many or too few resources allocated to a specific step, and excessive delays or miscommunication. .

3. Redesign the process

Time to figure out the solution and redesign the process.
What’s the best way to eliminate the hurdles you’ve identified?
Can you automate certain steps or remove them entirely?
Do resources need to be reallocated?
Is communication the major issue?

4. Create an implementation team

Select a team that will put it into action. This team should consist of the people who are most directly impacted by the process and its changes. Go over the plan for the redesign so each team member understands the new process and their role within it. Include people with specific skills in IT or operations, for example.

5. Implement the new process

Executing the new process is the most challenging part of process improvement planning. This is where you get to see whether the redesign is effective. Document each step of the new process and measure its success, such as the time it takes to complete or the cost of the resources allocated.

6. Review and adjust the process as needed

Your last step — monitoring the performance of the new process...
Is the new process more efficient than the old one?
Check the KPIs and take both qualitative and quantitative information-based decisions for further adjustments.

Now that you know how to create a process improvement plan, it’s time to get to work and make improvements in your organization.
Get in contact with one of our consultants to get Custom Recommendations and BPM Solutions.