In this article, we’ve created a starter Freelance Lean Consultant Workflow Map that you can use to start planning out your product/service delivery and we’ve outlined a few examples of experiments that you can run in your Freelance Lean Consultant role.
Ready to get started? Download the Workflow Map template or get in touch to discuss how a workflow coach could help you fast-track your business improvement.
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The path towards better systems and processes in your Freelance Lean Consultant role starts with mapping out your most important business processes. Being able to see your business processes laid out visually helps you to collaborate with your team on how to improve and grow. By repeating this collaboration process, you’ll develop a culture of continuous improvement that leads to a growing business and streamlined systems and processes that increase customer & staff experience.
To help you start mapping out your processes, we’ve developed a sample flow for a Freelance Lean Consultant Workflow Map that you can use with your team to start clarifying your processes and then run Business Experiments so you can build a better business.
1. Initial consultation: Meet with the client to understand their specific needs and goals for improving their HR and training processes.
2. Process assessment: Analyze the current HR and training workflows and identify areas for improvement and potential bottlenecks.
3. Workflow mapping: Create a detailed workflow map in Notion that outlines the stages of service/product delivery from the client’s perspective, including all the necessary steps and interactions.
4. Gap analysis: Compare the current workflow map with industry best practices and identify any gaps or areas where the client’s processes can be optimized.
5. Recommendations: Provide the client with a comprehensive report outlining specific recommendations for improving their HR and training processes, based on the workflow map and gap analysis.
6. Implementation planning: Collaborate with the client to develop an implementation plan, including timelines, resource allocation, and key milestones.
7. Training and support: Conduct training sessions for the client’s HR and training teams to ensure they understand and can effectively implement the recommended improvements.
8. Continuous improvement: Regularly review and update the workflow map in Notion to reflect any changes or refinements made during the implementation phase.
9. Performance monitoring: Track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of the implemented improvements and identify any further areas for enhancement.
10. Ongoing support: Provide ongoing support and guidance to the client, offering assistance with any challenges or adjustments that may arise during the continuous improvement process
Experiment 1: Implementing a Lean Six Sigma training program
Description: Develop and deliver a comprehensive Lean Six Sigma training program for HR and training professionals within the organization. This program will cover the principles and methodologies of Lean Six Sigma, equipping participants with the necessary skills to identify and eliminate waste, streamline processes, and improve overall efficiency.
Expected Outcome: By training HR and training professionals in Lean Six Sigma, the organization can expect to see a significant reduction in process inefficiencies, improved productivity, and enhanced customer satisfaction.
Experiment 2: Introducing a continuous improvement suggestion system
Description: Establish a suggestion system where employees can submit ideas for process improvement, cost reduction, or any other aspect of the business. Encourage employees to actively participate by offering incentives or recognition for valuable suggestions. Implement a structured review process to evaluate and prioritize the suggestions, and then implement the feasible ones.
Expected Outcome: This experiment aims to tap into the collective intelligence of the organization’s employees, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. By implementing valuable suggestions, the business can expect to see increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved employee engagement.
Experiment 3: Conducting a value stream mapping exercise
Description: Engage with key stakeholders across different departments to map out the current state of processes, identify bottlenecks, and visualize the flow of value from the customer’s perspective. Analyze the value stream map to identify areas of improvement and develop an action plan to eliminate waste, streamline processes, and improve overall value delivery.
Expected Outcome: Through value stream mapping, the organization can gain a holistic understanding of its processes, enabling targeted improvements. The expected outcome includes reduced lead times, improved process flow, and enhanced customer satisfaction.
Experiment 4: Implementing a performance measurement system
Description: Develop and implement a performance measurement system that aligns with the organization’s strategic objectives. Define key performance indicators (KPIs) for different departments and roles, establish regular reporting mechanisms, and provide feedback to employees. Use the performance data to identify areas for improvement and drive accountability.
Expected Outcome: By implementing a performance measurement system, the organization can track progress, identify areas of underperformance, and take corrective actions. The expected outcome includes improved employee performance, increased productivity, and better alignment with strategic goals.
Experiment 5: Streamlining the onboarding process for new clients
Description: Analyze the current onboarding process for new clients and identify areas of inefficiency or bottlenecks. Develop a streamlined onboarding process that reduces paperwork, automates repetitive tasks, and improves communication and coordination between different teams involved in the process.
Expected Outcome: By streamlining the onboarding process, the organization can enhance the client experience, reduce time to onboard new clients, and improve overall operational efficiency. This experiment aims to increase client satisfaction and retention rates
The above map and experiments are just a basic outline that you can use to get started on your path towards business improvement. If you’d like custom experiments with the highest ROI, would like to work on multiple workflows in your business (for clients/customers, HR/staff and others) or need someone to help you implement business improvement strategies & software, get in touch to find out whether working with a workflow coach could help fast-track your progress.
