The tendency is often to blame people. Problem: What makes it obvious something needs to be fixed. Materials: Is the problem caused by availability or quality of materials or dependability of vendors? Equipment: Is the problem caused by lack of good and/or dependable machines? Enviroment: Is the problem caused by a physically or socially inappropriate environment? Process: Is the problem caused by poorly designed processes or lack of performance standards? People: Is the problem caused by workers not following processes? Lack of training? Lack of teamwork? Most problems are caused by mismanagement.

It is only when a problem
is caused by...

• Workers not following work processes
• Lack of training or
• Lack of teamwork

that there is a "People issue."

Managers must provide appropriate

Materials,
Machines,
Environment,
Methods,
Training and
Leadership.
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