Ordnance Survey is Great Britain’s national mapping agency, providing the most accurate and up-to-date geographic data, relied on by government, business and individuals in a variety of applications.

Business Situation:

In recent years the Ordnance Survey has invested heavily in LEAN business improvement techniques and was now looking for ways to extend their knowledge and tackle difficult business problems.

In addition, the Ordnance Survey was looking to transform its business and streamline its operating model in preparation for a government decision on its future.

 There was a need to link business strategy to organizational structure and performance improvement projects.

Business Solution:

Lighthouse Consultants offered advanced business improvement techniques, using cutting edge research and the latest computer powered analysis.

In order to offer Ordnance Survey a formal accreditation to support these advanced techniques, modules were developed to combine Lighthouse Consultants’ 6Sigma Black Belt training programme with specific projects using Ordnance Survey’s data.

The senior managers were mentored through the strategic DMAIC Performance Improvement Framework, understanding key dependencies and processes between departments.  Projects were selected that were directly linked to the organisation’s long-term strategic requirements.

Results:

• Used the Lean Six Sigma DMAIC methodology as a Performance Improvement Framework to understand overall performance and constraints.
• Re-configured departments to focus on Continuous Improvement.
• Developed implementation plan for pan-organisation roll out, including champions, technical experts, Black Belt and Green Belt training, and senior management briefings.
• Accredited Black Belt professionals.
• Significant Quick Win savings, due to strategic project selection.
• Utilised Six Sigma tools for strategic business decision making.