Engineering Efficiency: Lean Project Management Training Course

Introduction

Applying Lean Project Management Principles for Engineers is revolutionizing how projects are executed, focusing on maximizing value and minimizing waste across engineering disciplines. This essential training course focuses on Lean Project Management Principles for Engineers, equipping participants with the methodologies to identify and eliminate non-value-added activities, streamline processes, and enhance efficiency in engineering projects. You will learn core Lean concepts like value stream mapping, pull systems, and continuous improvement, tailored for the unique challenges of engineering environments. Embracing Lean Project Management is crucial for engineers and engineering teams seeking to optimize workflows, reduce costs, accelerate delivery, and achieve superior project outcomes in Kenya and beyond.

This intensive training course delves into the practical application of cutting-edge Lean principles specifically for engineers and engineering teams. We will explore how to analyze existing workflows to identify waste, implement strategies for improving flow, and foster a culture of continuous improvement within your project teams. Participants will gain hands-on experience in conducting value stream mapping, designing pull systems, utilizing visual management tools, and applying problem-solving techniques to eliminate inefficiencies. By the end of this training course, you will possess the expertise to lead and contribute effectively to Lean engineering projects, driving greater productivity, client satisfaction, and sustainable success for your engineering endeavors in Kenya.

Target Audience

• Engineering Project Managers
• Engineering Team Leads
• Process Improvement Engineers
• Quality Control Engineers
• Manufacturing Engineers
• Product Development Engineers
• Anyone involved in optimizing engineering workflows and projects

Course Objectives

• Understand the core values and principles of Lean project management.
• Learn how Lean methodologies apply specifically to engineering projects.
• Master the concept of value and identifying various types of waste in engineering workflows.
• Develop skills in conducting value stream mapping for engineering processes.
• Understand how to implement pull systems and manage workflow effectively in engineering projects.
• Learn about visual management and its application in Lean engineering environments.
• Explore techniques for continuous improvement (Kaizen) in engineering project delivery.
• Master problem-solving methodologies like A3 thinking for Lean engineering.
• Understand the importance of building quality in and minimizing defects in engineering.
• Learn strategies for fostering a Lean culture and engaging engineering teams.
• Develop techniques for managing stakeholders and communication in Lean engineering projects.
• Understand how Lean integrates with other project management approaches.
• Apply practical Lean project management principles to engineering team scenarios.

DURATION

10 Days

COURSE CONTENT

Module 1: Introduction to Lean Thinking for Engineers

• Understanding the origins and core values of Lean methodology.
• Defining value from the customer's perspective in engineering projects.
• Identifying and understanding the seven (or eight) types of waste (Muda) in engineering workflows.
• Exploring the principles of flow, pull, and perfection in a Lean engineering context.
• The mindset shift required for successful Lean transformation in engineering.

Module 2: Value Stream Mapping for Engineering Processes

• Introduction to Value Stream Mapping (VSM) as a tool for process analysis.
• Learning how to create current-state VSM for an engineering project or process.
• Identifying value-added and non-value-added activities in engineering workflows.
• Developing future-state VSM to eliminate waste and improve flow.
• Utilizing VSM to drive actionable improvements in engineering project delivery.

Module 3: Establishing Flow and Pull Systems in Engineering

• Understanding the concept of flow and how to create continuous flow in engineering processes.
• Implementing pull systems to avoid overproduction and manage work-in-progress (WIP).
• Differentiating between push and pull systems in engineering project management.
• Techniques for balancing workloads and levelling production in engineering.
• Applying these principles to design more efficient engineering workflows.

Module 4: Visual Management and 5S for Engineering Workspaces

• Understanding the importance of visual management in a Lean engineering environment.
• Implementing Kanban boards and other visual controls for engineering projects.
• Learning the 5S methodology (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) for organizing workspaces.
• Utilizing visual cues to highlight progress, issues, and standards in engineering.
• Fostering transparency and immediate feedback through visual management.

Module 5: Continuous Improvement (Kaizen) in Engineering

• Understanding the philosophy of Kaizen (continuous improvement).
• Implementing regular Kaizen events and small, iterative improvements in engineering teams.
• The role of PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycles in driving continuous improvement.
• Fostering a culture where every engineer is empowered to identify and solve problems.
• Sustaining improvement gains over time in Lean engineering projects.

Module 6: Problem-Solving with Lean Tools for Engineers

• Introduction to Lean problem-solving methodologies like A3 thinking.
• Root cause analysis techniques (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams) for engineering issues.
• Implementing effective countermeasures to prevent problem recurrence.
• The importance of data-driven decision-making in Lean problem-solving.
• Applying structured problem-solving to common engineering project challenges.

Module 7: Building Quality In and Minimizing Defects

• Understanding the Lean principle of "build quality in" (Jidoka).
• Implementing error-proofing (Poka-Yoke) techniques in engineering processes.
• The role of standard work in ensuring consistent quality and reducing variation.
• Strategies for minimizing rework, scrap, and design flaws in engineering projects.
• Fostering a culture of zero defects and continuous quality improvement.

Module 8: Lean Culture and Leadership for Engineering Teams

• Understanding the role of Lean leadership in fostering a Lean culture.
• Engaging and empowering engineering teams in Lean initiatives.
• Communication strategies for driving Lean adoption and change management.
• Overcoming resistance to change in engineering environments.
• Sustaining Lean practices and embedding them into the organizational DNA of engineering.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.