In May, I had the opportunity to participate in a week-long Lean planning event to evaluate a current
state program. Lean planning – in rudimentary terms, identifying and removing the ‘fat’ or waste in a
process - has been around for over 100 years, and this the second event I’ve taken part in.

The members and facilitators of our Lean team were women from seven different state agencies and
one non-profit organization. That is a lot of state agencies and a lot of women with opinions. But we had come together as a group with a similar goal in mind – to improve an existing process for the betterment of the end user – small businesses.

My first experience with a Lean event several years ago was interesting and educational. It was a much larger and more diverse group of people and while we did end the week with some tangible results, I never quite felt we’d come together with the same goal in mind so it was difficult to arrive at true consensus. In the end, there was movement forward on the project, but it was years in the making.

My second Lean experience was much different. In May, as we progressed through five days of hard questions, sticky notes, white boards and table snacks, we transformed from individuals to a true team.

We worked through difficult conversations, remained open minded about new ideas, and at the end of the day came away with a plan of action that is already in implementation. We had achieved not only a successful outcome, but new friendships and respect for the programs we each are involved with.

I tell this story because it has reminded me again of the amazing results that can be reached when people are truly willing to work together on a common goal. As IASourceLink Resource Partners, I know you regularly collaborate with others to make great things happen for your businesses and communities. We would like to shine light on some of those stories, so whether it’s your own Lean planning event or some other experience where like minds created success, if you feel like sharing, please contact me!

Thanks again for all you do to help Iowa’s businesses succeed, and enjoy a safe and fun Independence

Day holiday!
 

-Amy Kuhlers, Program Manager and Network Builder, IEDA

In the seven years since the Pappajohn Sculpture Park was built in downtown Des Moines, the surrounding area has spiffed up in remarkable ways. Trendy restaurants replaced run-down auto shops. Shiny corporate offices lined up shoulder to shoulder. Just last weekend, the area hosted the Des Moines Arts Festival and more than 200,000 visitors.

It's a great example of creative development, right?
Right. But what if your city doesn’t have the same resources? What if nobody in town has a $40 million of sculpture just lying around?