Seeking Knowledge in the Information Age

We live in an age of information. Technology not only accelerates the generation of information but lowers the barriers to access. When it comes to solving business problems, useful knowledge remains elusive. Every day one can find countless books, articles, conference presentations, webinars, and blogs showcasing success stories of business improvement using various methodologies. While… Continue reading Seeking Knowledge in the Information Age

Starting Lean Six Sigma

Are you thinking about bringing Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies to your organization but concerned with their effectiveness? Starting with three questions will help increase your chance of success or return on investment. For more than a decade, I have led, supported, and observed Lean Six Sigma deployments in many organizations in life sciences.… Continue reading Starting Lean Six Sigma

The Role of Processes in Innovation

Do processes enable or stifle innovation? As a scientist and Operational Excellence (OpEx) practitioner in life science R&D, I have seen many perspectives. Typically, OpEx professionals stress how process design, management, and continuous improvement help reduce variation and waste and increase quality and productivity. Scientists often see the drawbacks — processes being rigid, overly prescriptive,… Continue reading The Role of Processes in Innovation