In multi-site operations, achieving strategic alignment across teams is a critical challenge. Misalignment leads to inefficiencies, duplication of efforts, and disengaged employees who struggle to see how their work contributes to the company’s success. To drive sustainable growth and value creation, leadership teams must ensure all functions are working toward common objectives.

The Role of Continuous Improvement (CI) in Alignment

Continuous Improvement (CI) methodologies such as Lean Six Sigma (LSS) and DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) provide structured frameworks to ensure company-wide alignment. These methodologies facilitate problem-solving, encourage data-driven decision-making, and promote cross-functional collaboration.

• DMAIC: Establishes a shared vision by defining problems, measuring processes, analyzing root causes, improving solutions, and sustaining results.
• Kaizen Events: Rapid, structured improvement initiatives that engage cross-functional teams and empower employees.
• PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act): Iterative learning and continuous improvement cycles that evolve alongside organizational needs.
• Hoshin Kanri: a strategic planning process that aligns organizational goals from top management to employees through clear communication, goal-setting, and continuous review, ensuring company-wide focus on key objectives.

By integrating these frameworks, organizations can create a culture of collaboration and accountability, improving execution speed and value creation.

Quick Wins for Alignment:

• Identify and prioritize key value drivers (e.g., cycle time, productivity).
• Align training and execution plans with leadership priorities.
• Use financial analysis and employee insights to drive data-based decision-making.

Case Study: A healthcare company struggling with operational inefficiencies due to unintegrated acquisitions implemented Lean and Project Management training. The result? Standardized processes, repurposing of 20 employees, and an annual savings of $200K. Read the full case study.