How do you measure process performance for better governance?

As defined, the process objectives should be SMART. At the same time, if we are missing a timeline any time due to uncertain/unplanned/unexpected situations, it does not mean a failure. We need to be realistic and then revise the timelines and make sure to add some buffer, so that the objectives are achievable.

A key aspect to successfully define and measure process performance is to be agile in the way the goals are met. Being agile not only includes the SMART framework to define your objectives, but to also bring a collaborative approach from all relevant stakeholders across processes, domains and verticals.

In water and Wastewater treatment plants , 4 procedures are necessary to be considered for better governance : 1- In designing stage :Considering appropriate analyzers for each outlet and inlet parameter regarding performance and task of each unit and effects of these parameter on other unit's performance 2- Considering periodic test procedure in operation stage (In operation manual)- Also test procedures for pre-commissioning and commissioning. 3- Supervising and support PLC programmer before and during of pre-commissioning and resolve discrepancy of control philosophy and control narrative documents with PLC program. 4-Periodic calibration all analyzers and dosing pumps ...

Identify the specific KPIs that are relevant to the process. KPIs should be measurable, quantifiable, and directly tied to the objectives. Examples of process KPIs include cycle time, error rate, cost per unit, customer satisfaction, and compliance rate.

Selection of key performance indicators is important step to find the right parameters in measuring the progress and success of the program. A great example would be to categorize the KPIs based on internal and external parameters, which then can be further classified into measurable, immeasurable or accounted, unaccounted, unknown attributes etc.

I manage data as per schedule M & USFDA and I follow ashrae and ishrae standards I manage and store our data for highly sterile products and I manage data our as per ICH guidelines and I manage data of indoor air quality as per iso 14644 standards actually I manage all process design data as per state code and international standards and Indian standards.

Data collection is one of the most difficult aspects of any process given the fact it is never going to be straightforward. The Data and ots collection process should be trusted and made available in a way that the whole process is streamlined for the duration of the program. This in turn helps to manage the whole process and makes subsequent assessment process easier for everyone.

Data sources could be seen as two types 1) primary methods ( like, survey, observation, interview etc) 2) secondary methods ( like published/ unpublished data, electronic database). Furthermore, these are subdivided/ classified into different data types/sources. Each one of them is supposed to be used for specific objectives and has its own merits, demerits and limitations.

Determine the current performance baseline for each KPI. This provides a starting point for measuring improvements. Historical data can be useful in establishing baselines.

Analyzing data is one part of the puzzle. It's important to define a framework which can be standardized and followed for data analysis and deep diving. This will help in defining the correct tools, methodologies and ideas to be followed. Ofcourse the analysis is incomplete without being able to effectively convey the insights and messages in the best possible way. And that is where clear articulation and simple and interactive visual dashboards provide the best results.

Process measurement needs to be a continuous one in regular intervals and should not be limited to end of timelines review. For ex: When a objective is defined with a timeline of 3 months, efforts should be made to regularly (say weekly or bi-weekly) monitor and give feedback to improve the process.

Basic Governance principle 1. Establish Process standard for the organization 2. Have a COE for it 3. Define rules and regulations 4. Prioritize the Process changes based on organization vision and objectives

Celebrate Achievements: Never forget to recognize and celebrate successes and improvements in process performance to motivate the involved and reinforce the importance of governance and performance measurement.

Nothing is perfect, there is always scope to do more... Create a feedback loop and keep a cadence to keep inspecting and improving over the system/ framework developed and inculcate the framework as a way of working. Stay open to feedbacks, agile towards pivoting to better frameworks and be as collaborative in the efforts as one can be.