A3 Problem Solving

A3 problem solving is a structured approach to resolving problems. It was popularized by Toyota but is now in widespread use.

A3 problem solving is hard to replicate because it requires discipline to use it and persistence to go through the iterative steps of coming up with a resolution. It also highlights mistakes as part of the process of correcting them. Some people get very defensive about this.

A3 problem solving is not intended to ‘call out’ the person, but rather should focus on the process.

A3 problem solving uses the A3 report to keep people on the same 11 x 17 inch page.

A3 problem solving is similar in concept to the DMAIC process of Six Sigma. Both use a structured approach that makes the user thoroughly define and understand the issue, address it with a variety of improvement efforts, and manage the corrections.

Keep in mind that the A3 process requires a variety of other problem-solving tools for it to get good results. Think of the A3 process like ‘carpentry’. You can know a lot about building cabinets, but once you decide what to build, you still need to know how to use tools to get good results.

See Also: A3 Thinking

Download our Free A3 Report Template (Provided Through Our Training Platform)

Watch this A3 Thinking Video