A3’s from Each Group

Plus / Delta

Key Take-Aways:
1. A3’s are a tool
2. A3 thinking is the key to solving problems. It is a systematic way to
go about solving problems.
3. When project teams do A3 thinking, it brings issues to resolution
faster.
4. A3’s are visual… use pictures, tables, etc when possible.

Austin CoP Event: A3 Thinking; Presented by: Felipe Hernandez; 04.26.2018

BECK LEAN BEST
PRACTICES
A3 TRAINING
A3 IS A PROBLEM SOLVING TOOL
Background
A3 refers to a European paper size (11x17 Equivalent). It is used by Toyota as the
template for 3 different types of reports:

Proposals
Status
Problem Solving

A3 shall not be limited to the types listed above. Lean is about innovation and continuous
improvement.

A3 is a tool to implement PDCA (Plan/Do/Check/Act) management.

Standardized communication method.

Serves as an organizational learning tool.

A3 THINKING
The mind-set behind the A3 system can be
distilled down to seven elements:
1. Logical thinking process
2. Presenting information in a
nonjudgmental way
3. Results achieved and processes used
4. Using only critical information and
visualization
5. Alignment of the effort with
strategy/objectives
6. Being consistent throughout the
organization
7. A systems approach to problem
solving
ROOT CAUSE ANALYSIS (RCA)
RCA – 5 WHYS
RCA – FISHBONE DIAGRAM

People Assessment Material

Problem or
Desired Solution

Space Equipment Methods

A3 - PROCESS
Steps to Creating an A3
Identify the problem or need
Perform root cause analysis
Understand the current situation/state
Develop the goal statement – develop the target state
Brainstorm/determine countermeasures
Create a countermeasures implementation plan
Check results – confirm the effect
Update standard work
EXAMPLE A3 ISSUES

CONSTRUCTION DESIGN
Unforeseen Conditions Design Options
Scheduling Conflicts Cost Reduction Examples
Owner Requests Construction Issues
Staffing Decisions Scheduling items
Logistics Plans Owner Requests
Phasing Plan OWNER
Buyout Process Design Options
RTI Items
Change Orgers
WHEN TO DO AN A3
A3 QUESTIONS
A3 vs. RFI
– RFI is a Contractual Doc. & A3 is a Problem Solving Tool
– A3 does not need to be included in the RFI
– Track RFI in the A3
– Don’t let the A3 hold up the RFI process
– Issue Confirming RFI to Officially Close Out Issue
Can you share this with the Owner?
– Yes and No
A3 Log?
– Simple Excel Sheet
Where do they live on the server?
– See Next 2 slides
Who manages the A3 and A3 Log?
– PE manages the Log
– SPM/IPL/Arch PM - approves/reviews the A3
Who creates A3s?
– Anyone
Where can I get more Information on A3s
– THE PORTAL!
A3 EXERCISE