Written by A community food bank in the United Kingdom (UK) utilized the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control) framework to eliminate handwritten expiration dates on tins, which clients viewed as a mark of stigma and embarrassment.
After receiving training on process improvement from Martin Hayden of LearnSixSigma.co.uk, the warehouse manager agreed to work on an improvement project.
During the initial phases, the team developed a project charter to align goals and created a process map to identify deep-seated inefficiencies in their sorting methods. They analyzed performance using histograms to understand cycle-time variations and subsequently implemented First In/First Out (FIFO) inventory management.
To sustain these improvements, the team redesigned their workspace with visual management tools, such as shadow boards and standardized layouts, while establishing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and daily stand-up meetings to ensure quality control.
The project achieved remarkable results, successfully eliminating handwritten dates on all tinned goods to preserve client dignity. The initiative led to a 56% reduction in dating and sorting cycle time and a 46% reduction in storage cycle time, contributing to an overall efficiency gain of roughly 50%.
These improvements saved more than 45 labor hours per week, which halted the necessity for volunteer overtime during donation surges. The project also sparked a cultural shift within the organization. Volunteers became more engaged and empowered, moving from following set routines to actively initiating further process improvements.
Read the entire article at https://learnsixsigma.co.uk/articles/reducing-stigma-at-the-foodbank-with-lean-six-sigma/