A3 is a problem-solving technique associated with lean manufacturing and used for continuous improvement efforts at many workplaces.
In this article, we'll explain the origins of the A3 problem-solving method, the different steps involved, and even the unexpected story about why it's called "A3."
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We'll explain all of the details of A3 shortly, but the short answer is it's a formulaic method to solve a problem and document the different steps in that process.
It's also used for things like reporting the status of a project and proposing changes to a policy.
Like many things associated with lean manufacturing, A3 was created in Japan by Toyota as part of the Toyota Production System (TPS). Of course, it's now used widely throughout the world, as is true of lean manufacturing in general.
There doesn't seem to be a single person who can be credited with the development of the A3 method. It does have roots in the PDCA cycle, a point we'll get back to shortly.
A3 is the size of paper that was originally used to document the A3 problem-solving method.
If you, like me, are not super fluent in paper-size talk, it's about the size of an 11" x 17" sheet of paper.
The A3 problem-solving method provides a simple, logical, formulaic way to solve a problem and to communicate about the problem to coworkers.
Other nice benefits of the A3 process are that it's organized, and it focuses on objectives, it forces the A3 report writer to be concise and stick to what's truly critical.
Finally, it's an easy thing to teach to employees and have them complete on their own.
Depending on whom you talk to, you'll see slightly different numbers of steps in the A3 method. Here's how we like to think about it (feel free to use the comments section if you have a different opinion).
Let's look at each step in more detail.
The first step is to clearly identify and briefly describe the problem.
Once you're described the problem, explain the current situation and context the issue is situation in. Use data and statistics when possible.
During this step, you might want to create a map of the processes that surround, are near, or influence the issue.
Define goals for what you'd like the desired end state to be.
Keep in mind that as you continue through the A3 process, and as you learn more, you may benefit from returning to this step and reformulating the goals.
Now, try to find the root cause of the problem. Keep in mind that often, the "root cause" is often not just one cause but a collection of interacting factors.
Classic methods in the lean toolbox for determining root cause include the 5 Whys?. In addition, keep in mind that you'll benefit from applying systems thinking, as many workplace problems are really systemic in nature.
Propose potential solutions and explain how they'd lead to they'll reach your goal/target.
Create a plan that includes all steps/actions necessary to implement the countermeasure. Note who's responsible for each step/action/task and when it should be completed.
Then implement, perhaps on a small scale as a "beta test."
Measure to see if the countermeasure actually worked.
If the plan didn't work, create a new plan, implement that, and then check the results again.
If the plan did work, leading to a positive result, communicate that to the rest of your organization and integrate the change into standardized work.
The A3 problem-solving method can be nicely "mapped" to the different phases of the PDCA cycle, as shown below.
We hope you found this introduction to the A3 method helpful. Remember that you'll see slightly different versions and steps when you go to different sources, but they all wind up basically the same.
And before you go, please download our free PDCA Cycle Infographic. Give us a little time and we'll probably create an A3 template you can download from here as well.
Download this free infographic of the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle commonly used for quality control, project planning, and continuous improvement.
Jeff Dalto, Senior Learning & Performance Improvement Manager
Jeff is a learning designer and performance improvement specialist with more than 20 years in learning and development, 15+ of which have been spent working in manufacturing, industrial, and architecture, engineering & construction training. Jeff has worked side-by-side with more than 50 companies as they implemented online training. Jeff is an advocate for using evidence-based training practices and is currently completing a Masters degree in Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning from Boise State University. He writes the Vector Solutions | Convergence Training blog and invites you to connect with him on LinkedIn.
