Written by Governor Pete Ricketts and the State of Nebraska’s Center of Operational Excellence (COE) highlighted recent examples of how the COE is improving the operations of state agencies. The COE serves as the hub that is working with state agencies to train state teammates on how to improve the operations of government, identify waste, and deliver better customer service. Lean Six Sigma, a private sector process improvement philosophy, serves as the basis for the trainings led by the COE. It currently offers training in White, Yellow, and Green Belts in Lean Six Sigma. All State of Nebraska teammates receive basic process improvement skills and earn their White Belt. The COE has also recently opened its Kaizen Room, located in the State Capitol, to lead training events and process improvement meetings.
In 2017, agency process improvement coordinators have completed 52 projects, eliminating over 1,300 non-value add steps. Â This has reduced the lead time for delivery by 9,200 hours. Â By eliminating unnecessary waste, the Nebraska State Government is able to deliver services more quickly and ensure that state government is being a good steward of taxpayer dollars.
Three examples are highlighted in the article: Tax Credit Approval Process, Healthcare License Delivery, and Corrections Pharmacy Packaging.