Audits Improve Processes
I know not many people like an audit. Brings up thoughts of people trying to show you made a mistake.
But I just received a notice of our upcoming ISO 9001:2000 audit and I am thrilled. While we deal with processes each day, it is productive to take some time and ensure we are doing out best and to look for ways to do things later.
Part of proper management is reducing waste, seeing things that are done that don’t add value and eliminating them.
Another part of such an audit is seeing where people are doing well and making sure the whole company uses that best practice.
Initially the goal is just to have a process, even if it isnt the best. Then to refine the process(es) to reflect best practices.
At yesterday;s best practice seminar someone discussed waste, and looking to eliminate waste within the organization. I look at some of the simplest things many organizations do that are waste and can be eliminated… Pens handed out at conferences (do we think people don’t show up with writing implements, or that the cheap pens are going to win any gratitude.) Whether you are dealing with CMMI, ISO 9000, ITIL, or whatever process approach.. look for ways to eliminate waste. And remember “the enemy of the best is the good”
Related posts
Comments
One Response to “Audits Improve Processes”
Leave a Reply
Audits of our estimates evoke similar emotional responses. Not enough time to do as thorough a job as we would like leaves us knowing “improvements” or criticisms are likely. Peer reviews, as for sw development, can help, but we should just accept criticisms as part of the estimate maturity process.