How to Use This Template
Our A3 Report composes of four major sections:
- Problem definition - establish the business context and describe the current and targeted conditions
- Analyze and define - determine the causal problem relationships
- Identify and develop countermeasures - how best to mitigate the effects of the problem
- Verify results - create a follow-up process
A3 Methodology borrows heavily from the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) process. Don’t stress about completing your report in a linear, step-by-step manner. It’s an iterative process, with the problem and countermeasures sections cyclically updated as you progress.
If your problem is too complex to fit on a single page, break it down into smaller sub-problems. An A3 Report is all about staying focused on what matters. It should encourage in-depth problem-solving, outlining the thinking that led to the recommended solution.
An assigned champion fills out the A3 report using information from all stakeholders. The methodology encourages asking many questions, listening and collaborating, and synthesizing the final plan into a visual, consolidated report.
Its simple structured approach makes it an excellent way to bring manufacturing innovation to the surface and leverage front-line workers’ expertise and knowledge.