Improving Organizational Culture

High-performing companies know that having a continuous improvement “culture” is one of the most important aspects of success. However, culture is also the most difficult part to implement, understand, and even define. Performing “tasks” without this framework and context of culture may yield temporary benefits, but experience shows they are difficult to sustain. This course provides a forum in which we define continuous improvement culture, and ways that leadership can foster this environment across all organizational functions.

Topics include:

  • Leadership fundamentals
  • The concept of Kata: a pattern you practice to learn a skill and mindset
  • Leader as coach: how to nurture a continuous improvement culture and reach all stakeholders within the organization
  • Tips for creating a “Coaching Kata” plan

The course is a blend of instructor-led lecture with numerous opportunities for class discussion in large and small groups. 

Hours: 8

Learning Outcomes

  • Describe the importance of culture to sustain/nurture a continuous improvement enterprise
  • Understand the steps for executing the principle of pursuing perfection
  • Discuss ways to coach work teams
  • Develop a plan to work toward a continuous improvement culture

Intended Audience

Anyone who currently leads or seeks to lead continuous improvement efforts at an organization by using any discipline, including Lean, Six Sigma or ISO

Prerequisites

None

Course Schedule

8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

December 16, 2020

UB Center for Tomorrow

Instructor Bio: Julie Stiles, CLP

As a Certified Lean Professional and activity-based cost management expert, Julie helps all types of organizations improve their business performance and profitability. She does so through a variety of means: diagnosing and solving problems, guiding leaders toward specifying and quantifying previously unstated goals and objectives, cultivating the identification of priorities and related metrics, and inspiring clients to see their work with a fresh perspective. Julie’s agility and flexible approach enables her to apply business concepts in a creative way that meets unique customer needs. 

COURSE CLOSED!

Another session may be scheduled if there is enough demand. Contact Gary Simon at ggsimon@buffalo.edu or 716.645.8837 if interested.