HY-CHANGE: a hybrid methodology for continuous performance improvement of manufacturing processes

Abstract

A hybrid methodology for continuous performance improvement (CPI) is presented, based on the joint recourse to business process re-engineering (BPR) and continuous quality improvement (CQI) principles and tools. The methodology (named HY-CHANGE) is conceived as a logical and technical support to the decision maker. It results in a number of recursive phases, where the rational and synchronous use of several tools and techniques, borrowed from the two methodologies mentioned above, is structured into a unique approach. HY-CHANGE thus offers a structured guide for performance improvement processes more suited to the enterprise reality and its dynamical evolution. The value of the methodology is to provide a structured frame to use several methodologies and tools (here referred to as ‘decisional tool-kit’) with the scope of effectively managing change processes at any level within the enterprise. The practical implications of the idea are discussed based on a case study conducted in an Italian SME producing sofas.