Lean Thinking for Higher Education

LEAN THINKING FOR HIGHER EDUCATION

Lean Thinking has been applied to many organizations including manufacturing, healthcare, not for profit and service industries. While the concepts are universal, the application can be unique for an organization that relies on knowledge workers to deliver value to its internal and external customers.

University of Waterloo has developed a specific methodology to apply Lean Thinking concepts to how we work. We will introduce the thinking and tools including Rapid Problem Solving and the Small Kaizen process and how to start applying them.

The Rapid Cycle Problem Solving tool develops the mindset to identify if we have a problem, how big the problem is, what are the impacts on our internal and external customers and to identify the key contributors to the problems. Once the problem is identified, the model helps us craft focused hypothesis to quickly pilot potential solutions to the problem and provides the framework to follow the Plan, Do, Check, Adjust problem solving cycle.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Review how lean thinking and tools are being used and planned out at Waterloo (Excellence Canada/Strategic Plan)
  • Learn how to identify and analyze complexity of problems
  • Learn how to implement solutions using a variety of methods to solve common problems

Key Themes:

  • Leveraging Technology
  • Innovation
  • Process Improvement

Presenters:

With more than 15 years of experience, Kimberley Snage has a background in business, a PMP designation and has led technology, enterprise change and analytical functions within diverse industries. As Director of HR Projects, Technology and Analytics at the University of Waterloo, Kimberley leads a team that defines evidence-based talent analytics, while overseeing the HR Project portfolio, HR technology and the execution of continuous improvements on campus.

Scott Smith is the President of High Performance Solutions and Consortium. He brings over 25 years of experience in, Lean Thinking, Continuous Improvement Facilitation, Leadership Development and Organizational Systems Thinking. Scott helps organizations realize the tremendous potential that exists in developing CI as a driving business philosophy and what is required to build a culture of excellence. Scott currently works with organizations in the manufacturing, service, support not for profit, higher education and healthcare sectors.


Sessions:

April 5, 2018
1 - 2 p.m.
STC 0050

April 6, 2018
10 - 11:30 a.m.
STC 0050

Accessibility

The University of Waterloo is committed to providing barrier-free access and equal opportunities to all individuals with disabilities. We strive to create an inclusive environment that is welcoming and supportive of everyone, regardless of their abilities. OHD encourages a scent-free environment in our in-person learning and development events.

If you require any additional accommodations or have any questions about accessibility, please connect with our OHD Events and Programs Coordinator, Krystal Mittler at krystal.mittler@uwaterloo.ca. We are committed to ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to participate in our learning and development event. Please note that certain accommodations may require time to arrange.


The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within our Office of Indigenous Relations