In today's competitive environment, speed has become a significant differentiator.

Speed of execution is
a desired trait, if not a requirement, in both the public and nonprofit sectors. Errors and delays are
frequently the root of customer complaints, thus minimizing both would go a long way toward
enhancing customer happiness while also maximizing the use of available resources.

Waiting, in most circumstances, is a postponed activity that occurs until another productive action on
the item created is completed. When we look at the step-by-step process of making a product or
providing a service, we can see that each activity adds value to the product or service, resulting in what
the client is willing to pay for. Waiting is typically non-value added because the commodities are
awaiting further action at a later date.

While waiting is frequently a non-value-added period of time, there are times when it is necessary. For
example, if something needs to be painted, it is necessary to wait for the primer to dry before applying
the paint. When concrete is placed down, it must cure before any further work can be done with it, and
this waiting period cannot be accelerated.

However, if the delay is caused by a lack of information, we must question ourselves:

 Is it possible to handle the request more quickly?

 Is it possible for the person who requires it to obtain it on his or her own?
 Could it be sought earlier in the process so that it is available when and where it is needed to
continue processing?

Waiting can happen as a result of a lack of coordination and scheduling between complementary tasks
within an organization or process. The next operation is either not ready for the input, cannot keep up
with the amount or timing of inputs, or requires extra information before proceeding.

 The following are some good questions to ask.

 Is it necessary to have a lot of evaluations, signatures, and approvals?
 Are activities that require the participation of too many people slowing down the process?
 Is there any downtime as you wait for information?
 Do discrepancies in computer system versions affect delays in resolving issues?
 Are there any other departments that are causing delays?