With Lean, we work to increase value add while reducing non-value add. TRIZ, the theory of inventive problem solving, is a knowledge-based approach to problem solving and design that defines ideality as the ratio of useful over harmful functions in a system—we increase ideality by increasing value while reducing non-value. This presentation describes TRIZ, with some examples of its application in design and production, and its integration with Lean methods. The discussion will also thread in the importance of execution and creating solutions and results that will be sustained.
David Bush is Global Director of Quality and Lean at Minnesota Rubber and Plastics, Quadion LLC. His work experience started as a production operator in a manufacturing shop that applied continuous-flow work cells and visual management methods, and he has applied those practices while leading quality and improvement in medical device, aerospace instrument, and high-reliability electronics industries.
David holds a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering from the University of Minnesota, and has been an Adjunct Professor teaching graduate-level courses in Quality Engineering, Engineering and Technology Management, Project Management, Creativity in Engineering Design, Design of Experiments, TRIZ Directed Evolution, and Work Analysis.
