Upcoming Events
BC LEAN Consortium
The BC Lean Consortium is an exclusive network of manufacturing companies across British Columbia, committed to supporting Lean journeys through problem-solving, shared learning, and continuous improvement. The Consortium provides a collaborative platform where companies present real-world operational challenges, and all members contribute their expertise to brainstorm and develop practical solutions.
Each session focuses on collaborative learning and problem-solving, with a mix of short training sessions, Gemba walks, plant tours, and hands-on activities designed to deepen members’ understanding of Lean principles and drive meaningful improvements.
who can benefit
The BC Lean Consortium is designed for manufacturing companies of all sizes that are eager to enhance their Lean practices and solve operational challenges. Typical participants include Lean Managers, Continuous Improvement Managers, Operations Leaders, and Plant Managers. Companies can send relevant team members based on the session’s topic and problem being addressed.
HOW IT WORKS
- Company-Based Registration: Each session is designed for company-based registration, allowing up to two participants per company to attend based on the session’s focus and needs.
- Pre-Defined Topics: Every session is centered around a specific Lean-related topic, ensuring that each meeting is focused and impactful.
- 6-Hour Sessions: Meetings are extended to 6 hours, allowing for detailed discussions, problem-solving sessions, and a deeper dive into Lean concepts.
- Training: Each session includes a brief training segment related to the session topic, providing participants with new tools and methodologies that they can apply in their own organizations.
- Host Company Presentation: The host company presents an overview of their operations and the specific challenges they are facing, providing context for the problem-solving discussions.
- Gemba Walk and Plant Tour: Participants have the opportunity to walk the shop floor and observe processes firsthand during a Gemba walk and plant tour, gaining valuable insights into the host company’s operations.
- Problem Solving Focus: The host company presents a current operational challenge, and the group works together to brainstorm potential solutions based on Lean experiences and practices.
- Improvement Projects: Each company is asked to report on their ongoing Lean improvement projects at every session, fostering a culture of continuous learning and accountability.
CME will further support each BC Lean Consortium member by providing 5 Free CME Facilitation days, which can be used to access a wide range of CME services and training opportunities. These 5 days offer companies the flexibility to tailor their support to their unique needs.
member benefits
- On-Demand Training: Companies can use these days to participate in additional CME-led training sessions, either on general Lean concepts or specific topics that align with their business challenges.
- Tailored Support: If a company needs guidance in implementing Lean tools or overcoming operational obstacles, the 5 days can be used for on-site facilitation or personalized coaching sessions, where CME experts provide one-on-one support.
- Access to Other CME Services: The 5 days also cover other valuable CME services, such as workshops, specialized seminars, or participation in additional industry events, all designed to help members strengthen their continuous improvement efforts.
- Implementation Assistance: These days can also be used to get practical assistance in implementing Lean tools and processes directly within the company’s operations, ensuring a smoother transition to a more efficient and productive environment.
This support is designed to be flexible and responsive to the specific challenges of each member company, ensuring that they have the resources and expertise needed to make meaningful progress on their Lean journey.
focus
The BC Lean Consortium primarily focuses on problem-solving, empowering companies to tackle their operational challenges and accelerate their Lean transformation. Sessions are designed to:
- Collaborate on real-world problems: Host companies present their operational challenges, and the group works together to find solutions.
- Learn by sharing: Peer-to-peer learning and problem-solving allow participants to share insights and best practices.
- Experience Lean in action: Through Gemba walks, plant tours, and hands-on training, participants see Lean principles in practice and gain practical tools they can apply to their own companies.
DISCUSSION TOPICS
Each BC Lean Consortium session focuses on a specific Lean topic, with a combination of training, presentations, Gemba walks, and problem-solving sessions. Some common topics include:
- Solving bottlenecks and improving process flow
- Value stream mapping and process optimization
- Developing and applying root cause analysis (e.g., A3, PDCA)
- Standard work and process consistency
- Building a Lean culture and leadership
- Employee engagement and continuous improvement
- Lean problem-solving tools (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagram)
- Waste reduction and the 8 Wastes of Lean
- Lean manufacturing techniques (Kaizen, 5S, Kanban, etc.)
CONTACT
For more information or to register for the next session, please complete the form below. Note that the BC Lean Consortium is currently offered in BC.