We’re here to help the University run the most efficient processes it can, so that more of its resources can be spent on learning, teaching and research. Created as a response to external pressure for greater efficiencies in Universities (see the Diamond Report), and internal understanding that increasing student numbers, greater regulation and financial pressures mean that we must operate with less waste, our remit is to facilitate process improvement events, to run training in improvement tools and techniques, and to develop a culture of process awareness in the University.

In thinking about processes we concentrate on improving their flow, reducing variability and eliminating waste. In practical terms this means that we try to create a process which

• does not batch work up to deal with it all at once, but which smooths out the peaks and troughs
• does not rely on the supplier pushing the work through the system, but allows its customer (however defined) to pull the work
• treats with respect everyone involved in the process and its improvement

Please use the links on the left to understand how we can help, look at some of our case studies and contact us to discuss for a chat about your processes.

News Maternity Leave Notification Process #mlnp In June we facilitated two workshops with staff from Finance, HR and Faculty of Medicine Dentistry and Health to improve the Maternity Leave Notification Process. We have identified an improved process, which is due to be implemented in August 2013. Outcomes of the project include a much more efficient / quicker process for staff, improved guidance and support for staff when calculating dates, improved correspondence, and support for staff on fixed term contracts. Annual Report The Process Improvement Unit has completed its first year. We were delighted to present our annual report to the Steering Group on 1 July. The Steering Group were impressed with the progress of the projects and the efficiencies that have been gained/identified. In the second year we aim to continue to work with staff on process improvement projects (at their request) and deliver training.

Tweets by @SheffieldULean