Austin CoP Event: A3 Thinking; Presented by: Felipe Hernandez; 04.26.2018

Key Take-Aways:1. A3’s are a tool2. A3 thinking is the key to solving problems. It is a systematic way to

go about solving problems.3. When project teams do A3 thinking, it brings issues to resolution

faster.4. A3’s are visual… use pictures, tables, etc when possible.

Plus / DeltaA3’s from Each Group

A3 TRAINING

BECK LEAN BEST

PRACTICES

A3 IS A PROBLEM SOLVING TOOL

A3 refers to a European paper size (11x17 Equivalent). It is used by Toyota as the template for 3 different types of reports:

� Proposals

� Status

� Problem Solving

A3 shall not be limited to the types listed above. Lean is about innovation and continuous improvement.

A3 is a tool to implement PDCA (Plan/Do/Check/Act) management.

Standardized communication method.

Serves as an organizational learning tool.

Background

A3 THINKING

The mind-set behind the A3 system can be

distilled down to seven elements:

1. Logical thinking process

2. Presenting information in a

nonjudgmental way

3. Results achieved and processes used

4. Using only critical information and

visualization

5. Alignment of the effort with

strategy/objectives

6. Being consistent throughout the

organization

7. A systems approach to problem

solving

ROOT CAUSE ANALYSIS (RCA)

RCA – 5 WHYS

RCA – FISHBONE DIAGRAM

Problem or

Desired Solution

Assessment Material

MethodsEquipmentSpace

People

A3 - PROCESS

Steps to Creating an A3

� Identify the problem or need

� Perform root cause analysis

� Understand the current situation/state

� Develop the goal statement – develop the target state

� Brainstorm/determine countermeasures

� Create a countermeasures implementation plan

� Check results – confirm the effect

� Update standard work

CONSTRUCTION

� Unforeseen Conditions

� Scheduling Conflicts

� Owner Requests

� Staffing Decisions

� Logistics Plans

� Phasing Plan

� Buyout Process

DESIGN

� Design Options

� Cost Reduction Examples

� Construction Issues

� Scheduling items

� Owner Requests

OWNER

� Design Options

� RTI Items

� Change Orgers

EXAMPLE A3 ISSUES

WHEN TO DO AN A3

A3 QUESTIONS� A3 vs. RFI

– RFI is a Contractual Doc. & A3 is a Problem Solving Tool

– A3 does not need to be included in the RFI

– Track RFI in the A3

– Don’t let the A3 hold up the RFI process

– Issue Confirming RFI to Officially Close Out Issue

� Can you share this with the Owner?

– Yes and No

� A3 Log?

– Simple Excel Sheet

� Where do they live on the server?

– See Next 2 slides

� Who manages the A3 and A3 Log?

– PE manages the Log

– SPM/IPL/Arch PM - approves/reviews the A3

� Who creates A3s?

– Anyone

� Where can I get more Information on A3s

– THE PORTAL!

A3 EXERCISE