TABLE OF CONTENTS Part Two describes how to assess the current state of the product development process and introduces a methodology for developing an improvement plan. A case study provides additional insight into following these approaches.
So how do we begin our journey of initiating improvements related to the product development process? To understand what improvements need to be made, it is important to first understand the current state of the process. Understanding the current state represents the starting point, or the baseline, for initiating improvement. Consequently, the first step in the improvement of the product development process is to conduct an assessment, or what is more commonly referred to as a baseline event.
A baseline event represents the best opportunity to gain a thorough understanding of the current environment. Specifically, a baseline assessment:
Identifies where problems exist
Shapes a vision for the future
Determines where to start and what to do
Obtains management commitment to proceed with an improvement plan
The scope of baseline events can vary greatly. In general, events can be conducted at a business unit level, product line level, functional department level, or process level. A successful baseline event requires some planning and up-front data gathering, the commitment of a cross-functional assessment team chartered by management, and facilitation by knowledgeable individuals with experience in conducting baseline events.
Baseline events can be orchestrated by using several different formats to achieve the...
