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PIPS

A 6-step process improvement methodology embedded in project management software.

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Resources/Glossary/Waste

Waste

ConceptStep 2: Analyze

Definition

Any activity that consumes time, resources, or effort without creating value for the customer.

Waste is the central target of Lean methodology and a key concept in PIPS problem analysis. Common waste types include overproduction, waiting, unnecessary transport, over-processing, excess inventory, unnecessary motion, and defects. Identifying and eliminating waste is often the goal of a PIPS project in operational contexts. Waste analysis starts with mapping the current process and asking at each step: does this create value?

Related Tools

Fishbone Checksheet

Related Terms

Lean

A methodology focused on eliminating waste and maximizing value in processes.

Root Cause Analysis

The systematic process of identifying the underlying causes of a problem, not just its symptoms.

As-Is State

The current condition of a process before any improvement is applied.

Where This Fits in the PIPS Methodology

This concept is used in Step 2: Analyze — Root cause analysis (fishbone, 5-why, force-field).

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