Eliminate: Stop doing what’s not needed
The Principle: Critically examine existing processes and identify tasks or activities that are no longer necessary, add little value, or are simply redundant.
What it means
- Question every step in a process
- Challenge assumptions about why things are done a certain way
- Look for opportunities to completely remove unnecessary steps
Examples
- Eliminating redundant reports
- Stopping unnecessary meetings
- Removing approval steps that don’t add value or aren’t required
Key questions to ask
- What value does this task provide?
- Who values the work performed for this task?
- What would happen if we stopped doing this?
- What law or policy requires us to perform this work?
Optimize: Improve how you do what’s necessary
The Principle: Focus on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the remaining processes.
What it means
- Streamline workflows and standardize processes.
- Reduce bottlenecks.
- Improve communication and collaboration.
- Standardize processes for consistency.
Examples
- Consolidating multiple forms into one.
- Simplifying approval workflows.
- Improving communication channels.
Key questions to ask
- How can we make this process faster and more efficient?
- Can we simplify any of the steps?
- What’s causing delays?
- How can we improve communication and collaboration?
Automate: Let technology handle repetitive tasks
The Principle: Identify opportunities to automate repetitive, manual tasks using technology.
What it means
- Reduce manual effort.
- Minimize errors.
- Free up staff to focus on higher-value work.
- Improve speed and accuracy.
Examples
- Automating data entry.
- Using robotic process automation for repetitive tasks.
- Implementing automated reporting systems.
Key questions to ask
- What tasks are repetitive and time-consuming?
- Can these tasks be automated using technology?
- What tools and technologies are available to automate these tasks?