Much has been written about the need for standardized work to maximize worker efficiency and process performance. And rightly so. Without standardized work, huge variances in efficiency and effectiveness are virtually inevitable. Studies indicate there can be as much as a 200-percent difference between bottom and top performers due, largely, to a lack of standard methods.

Many tools exist to support a standardized work environment. Those used frequently include:
• Standard work combination chart
• Standard work chart
• Standard work production board
• Standard work audits
• Standard work skills matrix
• Standard work week

But to effectively implement standardized work for an organization’s work processes, we should start with the cornerstone of standardized work: work standards.

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