Process Optimisation Glossary of Terms
The ultimate guide to understanding the tools and techniques used to streamline and enhance business operations. Save this glossary to optimise like a pro.
Why This Glossary?
Process optimisation is key to improving efficiency and delivering results. This glossary explains essential terms and strategies to help businesses unlock their full potential.
Process Optimisation Terms A-Z
Bottleneck Analysis
Bottleneck Analysis identifies points in your workflows that slow down processes. Removing these constraints improves efficiency and keeps projects on track.
Business Process Automation
Business Process Automation involves using technology to automate routine tasks. It reduces manual errors and frees up time for more strategic work.
Change Management
Change Management is the structured approach to transitioning individuals, teams, and organisations to a desired future state. It ensures smooth process adoption and long-term success.
Continuous Improvement
Continuous Improvement is an ongoing effort to enhance products, services, and processes. It’s a cornerstone of lean and agile methodologies.
Cycle Time
Cycle Time measures how long it takes to complete a task from start to finish. Reducing cycle time improves productivity and customer satisfaction.
DMAIC
DMAIC stands for Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, and Control. This Six Sigma framework drives structured problem-solving and process improvement.
Kaizen
Kaizen is a Japanese term meaning "continuous improvement." It focuses on small, incremental changes that collectively result in significant gains over time.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
KPIs are measurable values that indicate how effectively a team or individual achieves objectives. Tracking KPIs ensures accountability and drives improvement.
Lean Management
Lean Management focuses on delivering value to customers by eliminating waste in processes. It’s highly effective in streamlining operations.
Process Mapping
Process Mapping visually represents workflows to identify inefficiencies and opportunities for optimisation. It’s a foundational tool for process redesign.
Process Mining
Process Mining uses data from systems like HubSpot to analyse workflows and uncover inefficiencies. It helps businesses make data-driven improvements.
Process Redesign
Process Redesign involves rethinking and restructuring workflows to achieve better outcomes. It’s essential for adapting to evolving business needs.
Root Cause Analysis
Root Cause Analysis (RCA) digs deep to uncover the underlying causes of issues. This ensures problems are solved at their source, not just their symptoms.
Standard Work
Standard Work establishes consistent processes for tasks, ensuring predictable outcomes. It’s a foundation for quality control and training.
SOP (Standard Operating Procedure)
SOPs are step-by-step instructions that standardise processes. They reduce errors, ensure consistency, and improve training and scalability.
Value Stream Mapping
Value Stream Mapping analyses the flow of materials and information through a process. It’s essential for identifying waste and increasing value delivery.
Voice of the Customer (VOC)
VOC gathers customer feedback to understand their needs and expectations. It’s critical for designing processes that deliver exceptional value.
Workflow Automation
Workflow Automation uses tools like HubSpot to eliminate manual tasks, ensuring efficiency and accuracy in repetitive processes. It’s key to scaling operations.