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TechComm
Simulation managers and senior consultants contributed to the achievement of
dramatic improvements in the performance of Australian and overseas Power
Generators. Using experience gained during this time, an improvement
methodology has been developed which embraces those strategies found to be
most effective in improving Power Station business performance.
The major challenge facing power station management is to accurately measure “where they are now” and allocate resources to improvement activities. Continuous improvement is essential if Power Stations are to remain competitive in the current competitive environment.
It has been the experience of our consultants that productivity gains cannot be achieved, simply by instructing staff in a particular improvement technique, then expecting process improvement teams to do the rest. A more successful strategy is to measure current performance via a Power Plant Audit in a number of key areas, then use this as a base from which to evaluate the impact of improvement efforts. The measurement is followed by an identification of the process areas that are most urgently in need of improvement and the selection and training of the project teams who will address these areas.
Early projects conducted within Pacific Power and TechComm Simulation highlighted the importance of using a structured approach in any process improvement initiative. Our consultants have witnessed the effects of unstructured approaches and ad hoc improvement efforts on performance. The lack of a structured methodology results in a wasted effort and subsequent loss of motivation within project teams.
The Process adopted by TechComm Simulation is set out in figure 2. Appendix 1 lists some of the data required for a typical audit.
Audit Process Strategy - Deliverable’s
TechComm Simulation’s performance improvement process delivers the following outcomes:
Short Term
1. A series of performance measures that can be used to compare performance both nationally and
internationally;
2. A significant and sustainable improvement in the selected processes.
Long Term
1. A site-specific methodology for future process improvement.
2. A Project Coordinator capable of continuing the improvement strategy;
3. A group of people trained in the use of process improvement methods, with a record of achievement
within the organisation.
Appendix 2 provides three examples of target areas, which have benefited from the audit process.
The TechComm Simulation Audit Process Methodology
We have developed a network of experienced consultants, with many years of experience in the management, operation and maintenance of power plant. These consultants are trained in the use of the TechComm Simulation Audit/Improvement methodology aims. The first steps in the improvement template are quickly realised with minimal disruption to operation.
The Methodology step by step process:
1. Agree with the customer on the Audit target area;
2. Customer to appoint one of their staff as Project Coordinator;
3. Develop data requirements and interview schedule (refer appendix #1);
4. Review and analyse data supplied by customer and determine additional data needs. Use of statistical analysis tools is required;
5. Identify opportunities for improvement;
6. Present preliminary findings to station management;
7. Deliver final audit report with findings, improvement initiatives and process measurement criteria;
8. Implement improvements and monitor process improvement (if appropriate, nominate a Project Team with process expertise).