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In this Process Improvement Practitioners Show Q&A episode, I answer listener questions from our three-part series on process mapping.

We discuss how to determine when a process should be mapped, how much detail belongs in a process map, and what to do when subject matter experts disagree about how the process actually works. I also share thoughts on whether process mapping should be performed internally or facilitated by an outside expert, common mistakes organizations make when documenting processes, and what should happen after a process map is completed.

Finally, I share a real-world example of a "golden nugget" uncovered during a mapping exercise that revealed a much larger customer experience problem than anyone initially realized.

If you're responsible for improving processes, leading change, or building a culture of continuous improvement, this episode will help you get more value from one of the most important tools in the process improvement toolkit.

Questions addressed in this episode:

• How do I know when a process needs to be mapped?
• How detailed should a process map be?
• What do I do when team members disagree about how the process works?
• What is the biggest mistake organizations make when process mapping?
• Should process maps be created internally or by an outside facilitator?
• What should happen after the map is complete?
• What valuable insights can process mapping uncover that might otherwise remain hidden?

Thank you for listening to The Process Improvement Practitioners Show.

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In this special Q&A episode of The Process Improvement Practitioners Show, I answer listener questions about the Process Improvement Leader State of Mind series.

We discuss how to influence leaders when you have no formal authority, what to do when leadership says they want change but their actions suggest otherwise, and how to stay motivated after repeated improvement efforts fail to stick. I also share the process improvement derailer I've struggled with most personally, the trait I most often see in unsuccessful improvement leaders, and a major lesson that took years for me to learn.

One of the biggest surprises of my career was discovering that process improvement is far less about statistical tools and methodologies than I originally believed. More often than not, success comes down to culture, influence, leadership, and helping people embrace change.

Whether you're leading a formal continuous improvement program or simply trying to make your organization better, this episode offers practical lessons from the field that can help you become a more effective change leader.

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Welcome to the episode nobody wants to sit through but everybody needs.

Today we tackle one of the heaviest (and most valuable) tools in the process-improvement toolbox: the Failure Mode and Effects Analysis — FMEA.
Think of it as the colonoscopy your process never asked for but desperately needs. It’s long, occasionally uncomfortable, and you’ll see things you can’t unsee… but it just might save the patient.

In this episode I walk you through:

• Why FMEA is worth the heroic effort (and how to sell it to your sponsor)
• The exact inputs you need before you dare schedule the first meeting
• Every column in the FMEA template explained (with the gotchas most books forget)
• Real-time facilitation tips so you don’t lose two weeks of your life arguing over whether something is a 4 or a 5
• How to pick the right scoring scale (1-10? 1-5? 1-3-9? I give you my vote and why)
• A live, hands-on example (watch the YouTube version to see the spreadsheet in action)
• How to turn your finished FMEA into measurable proof that your improvement project actually delivered value

If you’ve ever been dropped into a process that’s on fire and nobody can tell you where the risks actually are… this episode is your fire extinguisher.

Video version (with the full live FMEA build): https://youtu.be/XS6xuTNVw14
Leave your war stories, tips, or “I survived an FMEA” scars in the comments — I read every one.

Onwards and Upwards!

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After a long pause in producing episodes, I’m back to talk about something that’s been a major milestone in my professional journey — earning the Project Management Professional (PMP®) certification.

In this episode, I share:

• What the PMP is and what it represents
• Why I decided to pursue it after years of hesitation
• How process improvement professionals can benefit from it
• What the exam is really like — from prep to mindset
• What I’d do differently if I had to start over

If you’ve been curious about whether the PMP is worth your time or investment, this candid reflection will help you decide.

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In the second half of our discussion on what defines a world-class CI organization, we explore the remaining four domains that complete the framework: Process & System Indicators, Alignment with Metrics, Leadership & Resource Support, and Outcome-Based Indicators.

From enterprise methodologies to the importance of sustained improvements, company-wide alignment, and financial outcomes, this episode provides a blueprint for assessing and advancing your CI maturity.

We also examine how innovation connects to continuous improvement—and how to measure it.

Don’t miss Part 1 if you haven’t heard it yet—it sets the foundation with Culture and Customer Alignment.

This is essential listening for CI leaders, business executives, and change agents ready to build something transformative.

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In this episode, we take a step back to explore the ultimate goal of continuous improvement work. Drawing from Covey’s “begin with the end in mind,” we outline six indicators of a high-performing CI organization—spanning culture, customer alignment, leadership, and more. If you're focused on driving real, lasting impact beyond just tools and techniques, this episode helps you anchor your efforts in a clear vision of what “Good” truly looks like. 

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In this final episode of our process mapping series, we explore why hiring a professional to facilitate process mapping can be a game-changer. From quicker results and reduced team burden to unbiased insights and higher-quality output, this episode breaks down six compelling reasons to bring in an expert. Whether you're a decision-maker or a process improvement practitioner, you’ll find valuable guidance on how to get the most from this foundational tool. 

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In this episode, we break down the art and science of process mapping—what it is, why it matters, and how to do it well. Whether you're tackling a transformation project, solving operational issues, or simply looking to streamline a workflow, this episode offers practical guidance you can immediately apply. We cover real-world examples, step-by-step tips, and common pitfalls to avoid. Join us as we demystify process mapping and equip you with tools to drive clarity and results. 

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Welcome back to The Process Improvement Practitioners Show! In this episode, we take a deep dive into one of the most fundamental tools in the process improvement toolkit: the process map. This episode kicks off a 3-part miniseries on process mapping — and we’re starting with the big “why.”

Host and practitioner-at-heart Todd Justman walks through why process maps are so critical, not just as a visual aid, but as the common language of change. From aligning perspectives to surfacing hidden waste, risks, and complexity, process maps unlock improvement opportunities you didn’t even know were there.

You’ll hear about:

• The four different versions of “what’s happening” in a process (and why that matters)
• What makes a good process map (and what doesn’t)
• Why mapping isn’t just a task—it’s a diagnostic tool
• How the act of mapping reveals team readiness, engagement, and cultural barriers to change

This episode sets the stage for what's to come: the value of professional process mappers, and how to map like a pro yourself. If you're in the business of transformation, don't skip this foundational listen.

📺 This episode has a visual component — check it out on the Dutch Cedar Consulting YouTube channel for the full experience.

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Join us for Episode 4 of the Process Improvement Practitioners Show (PIPS),  In this episode, titled "The Process Improvement Leader State of Mind - The Derailers," we dive into the third part of a three-part series exploring the mindset of an Operational Excellence and Continuous Improvement Leader. This time, we’re tackling the pitfalls—those subtle yet critical missteps that can sabotage your success as a change leader. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, this episode offers valuable insights into what not to do when driving business transformation. We’re flipping the usual positivity of the business world on its head to discuss nine key derailers that can undermine your efforts. Tune in for practical advice, real-world examples, and a touch of humor (including a nod to Tina Turner’s “We Don’t Need Another Hero”). Feedback is always welcome—connect with us on LinkedIn, YouTube, or DutchCedar.com to keep the conversation going!

The 9 Derailers Covered:

• "We’ve Always Done It This Way"
• Show Up and Tell Everyone What to Do
• Inflexibility
• Hero Mentality
• Customers Are External Only
• Siloed Thinking
• We Are Going to Make Someone Lose Their Job
• Letting Perfect Get in the Way of Good Enough
• Working Hard Means Progress

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Welcome back to the Process Improvement Practitioners Show! In this episode, we continue our three-part series on the Process Improvement Leader’s State of Mind, diving into the mindset that drives effective change leadership.

Building on the previous episode’s discussion of key leadership traits, we now explore how these traits manifest as behaviors and thought patterns. A strong mindset is essential for successfully leading process improvement efforts, influencing culture, and fostering lasting transformation.

We cover 11 critical elements of the Process Improvement Mindset, including:
✅ Assuming positive intent in others
✅ Blaming the process, not the people
✅ Developing a process-oriented perspective
✅ Understanding process ownership
✅ Identifying waste and inefficiencies
✅ Practicing customer-centricity
✅ Learning to say no to non-value-adding work
✅ Leading with questions before applying tools
✅ Thinking like a scientist in problem-solving
✅ Becoming a trusted advisor within the organization
✅ Striving to make continuous improvement so effective that your role is no longer needed

This episode is packed with insights to help you cultivate the right mindset, align your coaching approach, and position yourself as a true change leader. Join the conversation on LinkedIn or YouTube—we’d love to hear your thoughts!

Listen now and take the next step in your process improvement journey. 🎧🚀

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In this episode, we dive into the essential traits that define a PI (Product and Innovation) leader. What makes a leader truly effective in driving transformation and innovation? We explore the mindset, behaviors, and attributes that set them apart. From strategic thinking to resilience, adaptability, and a customer-centric approach, we break down the core qualities that empower PI leaders to navigate complex environments and deliver impactful results.

Whether you're an aspiring leader or looking to refine your leadership style, this episode provides valuable insights to help you cultivate the PI leader state of mind. Tune in to discover the key traits that can elevate your leadership journey.

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Thank you for finding the Process Improvement Practitioners Show!  If you lead, champion, or drive change in your professional life, this is the podcast for you.  In this episode I will cover:

1.    What is process improvement?

2.    Who am I and who are you?

3.    What kinds of problems will we be solving?

4.    Why “Process” should be your unit of measure for your change initiatives

5.    What kinds of subjects will we be covering in the future?

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If you are someone who leads change through process improvement in your organization, this is the podcast for you.  This is the Process Improvement Practitioner’s Show, where you will learn how to succeed in your efforts to drive positive change in your company, large or small.

What we do is not easy!  We will talk about all the challenges, from cultural struggles to getting support from executives.  We will talk about the tools, tips, and tricks to make your life easier.  We will navigate through the sea of buzzwords, statistical tools, sales pitches, and methodologies and focus on what you need to know to be successful, and how to properly define that success.  

I have over 15 years experience as a process improvement leader in many different types of companies and in different stages of change management maturity.  I’ve coached everyone from the break room to the board room on these tools and techniques, and will be sharing that experience with you bi-weekly.

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