In a previous blog post, we discussed the two types of variation: common cause and special cause. In order to take appropriate actions to reduce variation in our processes, we need to be able to differentiate between common cause and special cause. Reduced variation can lead to less rework, less waste, more predictability and control, and happier customers. As we discussed previously, common cause variation requires a holistic approach to process improvement (such as the D

Most discussions about performance focus on averages. While averages give us clues to targets and expectations, understanding variation is extremely important to driving lasting change. There are two types of variation, common cause and special cause. Common cause variation is innate in all systems, it is sometimes referred to as “noise.” For example, it takes me 28 – 35 minutes to drive to work. Each day is different from the last due to a number of factors associated w