Continuous Improvement : Employee Suggestion System

Abstract

The objective of this thesis was to develop the improvement suggestion process for Sterile Services Department at Satakunta Wellbeing Services County. The goal was to develop a systematic process for submitting, processing and monitoring employee improvement suggestions. A well-functioning improvement suggestion process aims to more effectively utilize the competence of employees in the development of the unit. The research method used was a spiral model consisting of iterative cycles of planning, action, observation, and reflection. The theoretical framework was based on Lean principles, methods and tools, as well as previous research on improvement suggestion processes. The current state of the improvement suggestion process, its challenges and objectives, were explored through thematic interviews with Sterile Services Manager and Head Nurses. The technical aspect of the improvement suggestion process was implemented with the Microsoft 365 tools. Criteria and process were defined for improvement suggestions. Based on the goals of the unit and the knowledge gained from the theory, the process created meets a number of criteria of a successful system, such as ease of use, clear processes and continuous monitoring. The areas to be developed were identified as the reward system and statistical monitoring.