Standardization is focused on clearly defining the nuances of the performance of any process to reduce variations between individual performances. Increasing the level of standardization makes other improvement tasks easier since it ensures that when each employee undertakes a particular task, the variables and inconsistencies are minimized. Standardization increases process efficiency by outlining how work will be done in each likely-to-be-encountered situation. In essence, standardization reduces the most common process and performance variation types. When variations occur, they are made much more apparent and corrected immediately without being allowed to pass further downstream.
Standardization begins with carefully constructed processes defined within standard operating procedures. Adequate training on the standards with consistent reinforcement will minimize performance variations that contribute to errors and inefficiencies. Tools such as checklists or check sheets, documentation procedures, or computer system prompts will support a standardized task performance on critical processes. Process standardization is documented within well-designed, detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs).
