GE Work-Out for Six Sigma Training & Consulting

From Rath & Strong:

GE Work-Out typically consists of three phases, all done as rapidly as possible.

Design: During the design phase, senior leaders identify the business issue they want to address and set a "stretch target" for the Work-Out. A Work-Out designer, typically an internal or external consultant, guides the leadership team through the process, from defining the problem to organizing a town hall meeting. The design phase usually takes a few weeks, although it can be accomplished in as little as one session if the Work-Out is very focused and simple.

Conduct: Next comes the Work-Out event itself. This event involves from 5 to more than 100 participants from all levels and functions in the business, and lasts one to three days, depending on the complexity of the issue being addressed. During the Work-Out, business leaders challenge participants to solve an important business problem or achieve a challenging goal. Participants then work in small teams to brainstorm, prioritize, and select a few ideas for achieving the performance goal. They develop detailed presentations and plans for putting these ideas into action. At the end of the session, teams present their recommended plans to the sponsor, other key leaders, and all the other Work-Out participants in a town meeting. There is discussion and debate and, most importantly, an immediate "yes/no" decision by senior management.

Implement: After the event, teams have to implement their approved recommendations and plans very quickly – in just a few weeks. Depending on the implementation capabilities of the organization, and the complexity of the issues being addressed, this period can involve regular team meetings, structured review sessions with senior management, and a formal meeting to close out the work at the end of the period and reflect on what has been learned. Work-Out recommendations are typically being implemented within sixty days.

For more information on how GE Work-Out can supplement your Six Sigma or Lean Six Sigma initiative, please visit Rath & Strong's website.