5.3.5 Process Improvement Teams
(e.g. quality improvement teams and best practice teams)
Process Improvement Teams differ from earlier Quality Circles in that they usually consist of people from a cross-section of areas able to comment on the wider process. Their core aim is to sustain improvement. The Improvement Teams commonly operate on a project basis. That is, they form to resolve problems and disband on problem resolution. Best Practice Teams and Quality Improvement Teams often necessitate the same team members (or at least a core of members) 'own' a process and are always involved in teams formed to resolve issues affecting that process. These teams have members that can comment on all aspects of the process from initial supply to final product or service delivery.
Team leaders provide a focal point for advice into the workplace from management. It also provides a workplace-up communication channel to senior management. These types of teams have become very important in companies across the globe seeking to achieve world competitive best practices. These companies use teams that both undertake benchmarking to determine what needs to occur for improvement, and how to translate these changes into revised team structures and work practices. Depending on levels of vested authority (empowerment), these teams may even plan and action process and systems redesign.
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