|
Monthly Edition • July 2026
|
|
|
|
MoreNews
ABOUT OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Goldilocks Principle of Data Visualization
|
We as continuous improvement practitioners spend a tremendous amount of time learning how to analyze data and comparatively little time learning how to communicate it.
In this thought leadership article, MoreSteam Principal Statistician Thomas DeMarco argues that the true value of data lies not in the analysis itself, but in the conversations and decisions it enables.
Thomas explores common data visualization pitfalls, introduces the "3-second rule" for effective charts, and shares practical guidance for creating visualizations that make the right conclusion unavoidable.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NEW COURSE
Hoshin Kanri Essentials
Every organization has a strategy, but far fewer have a system for turning that strategy into coordinated action.
Launching next week, MoreSteam's new Hoshin Kanri Essentials course introduces one of Lean's most effective approaches for aligning organizational priorities, connecting long-term objectives to daily work, and creating accountability around strategic initiatives.
Reply to this email, and we'll make sure you're among the first to know when the course launches.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NEW EPISODE
Stakeholder Analysis and the Art of Listening with Melissa Sherman
|
On this episode of Quality Time with MoreSteam, Melissa Sherman joins the show. Melissa is Vice Chair of the Michigan Lean Consortium, an industrial engineer, longtime Lean practitioner, consultant, and teacher. She is a proven Lean and change management leader who has successfully implemented Lean methodologies across complex environments. She and host Dan Swartwout discuss the importance of stakeholder analysis and how to conduct one, why curiosity and listening often outperform a complicated toolkit, and practical strategies for leading successful improvement efforts that create lasting change.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MASTER SERIES
Mapping for Continuous Improvement
|
Join MoreSteam President Peg Pennington this fall for a new three-part virtual Master Series on mapping for continuous improvement. You cannot improve what you do not see, and too often teams rush to fix isolated pieces of a process without first understanding how the work connects as a system. In this program, you will learn how to select the right mapping technique for the problem at hand and use those insights to support improvement decisions. Through guided practice and real-world examples, you will build practical mapping skills using core mapping tools like SIPOC, process maps, and value stream maps, and earn a digital certificate of completion.
September 8, 15, 22, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM ET
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
UPCOMING EVENT
Leadership Summit: Managing on Purpose Using Hoshin Kanri
|
Join Mark Reich, Senior Coach at the Lean Enterprise Institute, at MoreSteam Headquarters for a two-day workshop focused on Hoshin Kanri, a proven approach for aligning strategy with day-to-day execution. Through hands-on case studies, guided application, and real-world examples, participants will learn how to connect long-term objectives to daily work, build organizational alignment, and create accountability around the initiatives that matter most.
September 9-10, 2026 | Columbus, Ohio
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Participate in our Lean Six Sigma Certification Benchmark Study
|
Last month, we asked Operational Excellence leaders to share their perspectives on the skills and capabilities that matter most across Lean Six Sigma belt levels.
As we continue our benchmark study, we invite you to contribute your perspective on Lean Six Sigma certification standards.
Certification expectations often vary significantly from one organization to another. This benchmark study explores how organizations define certification, evaluate project work, determine the appropriate body of knowledge, and think about exams and recertification.
Our goal is to publish benchmark findings shaped by real-world experience that help organizations think more clearly about certification standards.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Was this newsletter forwarded to you?
Subscribe to our newsletter— monthly updates on Lean Six Sigma, process improvement, and upcoming events.
|
Follow us on LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Copyright 2026 MoreSteam.com, LLC. All rights reserved.
|
|
|
|
|
|
