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There are 3 modules in this course
Lean Problem - Solving for Team Members and Leaders is an intermediate-level course designed for managers and team leaders who want to develop systematic approaches to organizational challenges. In today's complex business environment, the ability to identify root causes, implement sustainable solutions, and build improvement cultures is essential for leadership success.
This course equips you with proven lean methodologies including Toyota's A3 thinking, root cause analysis techniques, and strategies for engaging teams in continuous improvement. Through real-world case studies from manufacturing, healthcare, and technology sectors, you'll learn to distinguish symptoms from root causes, apply appropriate analytical tools, and create organizational systems that prevent problems while fostering innovation. Whether you're addressing operational inefficiencies, quality issues, or team performance challenges, this course provides the frameworks and mindset needed to transform problems into opportunities for systematic improvement and cultural transformation.
In this foundational lesson, learners will explore the core principles of lean problem-solving methodologies and understand how they integrate with effective leadership practices. They'll examine Toyota's A3 thinking methodology, analyze lean principles through real-world manufacturing cases, and develop foundational skills for structured problem analysis within team environments.
What's included
3 videos2 readings1 assignment
Show info about module content
3 videos•Total 12 minutes
Introduction and Welcome•3 minutes
The Lean Mindset: From Quick Fixes to Systematic Solutions•5 minutes
Toyota's A3 Thinking: The Gold Standard for Problem-Solving•4 minutes
2 readings•Total 12 minutes
Welcome to the Course: Course Overview•4 minutes
Lean Problem-Solving Across Industries: From Manufacturing to Healthcare•8 minutes
1 assignment•Total 15 minutes
HOL: Map a Problem Using Lean Principles•15 minutes
Lesson 2: Root Cause Analysis and Solution Implementation
Module 2•1 hour to complete
Module details
This lesson focuses on mastering techniques for diagnosing problems accurately through systematic root cause analysis. Learners will explore multiple analytical tools including the Five Whys, fishbone diagrams, and data-driven investigation methods. They'll learn to distinguish between symptoms and root causes, and develop skills for implementing targeted solutions that address underlying issues rather than surface problems.
What's included
2 videos1 reading1 assignment
Show info about module content
2 videos•Total 9 minutes
Beyond Symptoms: The Science of Root Cause Analysis•5 minutes
Tools for Deep Analysis: Five Whys, Fishbone, and Data Investigation•4 minutes
1 reading•Total 10 minutes
Distinguishing Symptoms from Root Causes in Complex Organizations•10 minutes
1 assignment•Total 15 minutes
HOL: Conduct a Root Cause Analysis Investigation•15 minutes
Lesson 3: Building a Continuous Improvement Culture
Module 3•2 hours to complete
Module details
In this final lesson, learners will develop strategies for creating organizational cultures that support continuous improvement and innovation. They'll explore methods for engaging teams in problem-solving activities, encouraging experimentation and learning from failures, and establishing systems that sustain improvement efforts over time. This lesson culminates in a comprehensive capstone project and assessment.
What's included
3 videos1 reading3 assignments
Show info about module content
3 videos•Total 10 minutes
From Problem-Solving to Problem-Preventing: Building Learning Organizations•4 minutes
Engaging Teams in Continuous Improvement: From Observers to Owners•4 minutes
Congratulations and Continuous Learning Journey•2 minutes
1 reading•Total 10 minutes
Learning from Failure: Turning Setbacks into Stepping Stones•10 minutes
3 assignments•Total 70 minutes
HOL: Design a Continuous Improvement Framework for Your Organization•15 minutes
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What will I get if I subscribe to this Specialization?
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Is financial aid available?
Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.