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There are currently eight active kaizens. Kaizen can be translated as improvement, but more precisely it means change for the better (kai is change and zen is for the better). Improvements through Kaizen have a process focus. Kaizen is a team effort. It involves all levels of the organization and relies on seeking information from those who are doing the work. The premise of Kaizen is to make work flow by taking processes apart, studying them and making improvements.
MUNI LOT DISTRIBUTION OUTCOMES
- Volunteer training transitioned from IT to Volunteer Services.
- IT and Facilities are no longer needed at the Muni lot.
- Optimized traffic patterns and implemented PantryTrak mobile software.
- Volunteer Services staff rotates every 3 weeks, reducing staff needs.
HOME DELIVERY PROGRAM OUTCOMES
- Scaled process using DoorDash Community Program.
- Expanded job descriptions for greater efficiency.
- Volunteer Services and HR are no longer needed in this process.
- Program expansion includes CSFP, Nourishing Beginnings, and more.
GIFT ENTRY PROCESS OUTCOMES
- Implemented Importomatic Software.
- Reduced time entering gifts, enabling focus on database tasks.
- Only 1 temp was hired vs. 4 in past years.
PURCHASE ORDER PROCESS OUTCOMES
- Mapped current and future state processes; documented RACI chart.
- Identified and replaced a manual step with a CERES report.
- This change saves accounting 20 hours per month.
Small Ks
Small Ks, or small Kaizens, represent a focused approach to continuous improvement within the Greater Cleveland Food Bank. Unlike large Kaizens, Small Ks target smaller issues or improvements. They're quick to implement, efficient, and have a powerful cumulative impact on operations.