Continuous Improvement Software can be a great tool for helping your business to create more value for customers and simultaneously reduce operating costs. Some software packages even make so that improvements can systematically be driven across functions, locations, and even entire industries. This post will provide a side-by-side continuous improvement software comparison so that you can cut through the fog and choose the best option for your organization.
Continuous Improvement Software Comparison
Impruver
Value Proposition:
Develop and reinforce the habit of daily improvement, leadership coaching, and problem-solving enterprise-wide via Toyota KATA
Cost:
Free for 5 users + $15/mo
Access:
Cloud-based
Mobile:
Yes
Support:
24/7, Chat, Forums
Rating:
Kainexus
Value Proposition:
Track and vote on improvement ideas and savings. Share ideas across the organization and track results.
Cost:
Not Listed
Access:
Cloud-based
Mobile:
Yes
Support:
24/7
Rating:
Not Rated
Reverscore
Value Proposition:
Track and manage kaizen projects by category between productivity, health & safety, and quality management
Cost:
Free – limited features + $5/mo per user
Access:
Cloud-based
Mobile:
Yes
Support:
24/7
Rating:
Not Rated
The Lean Way
Value Proposition:
Pinterest-style improvement sharing platform. Users can like and comment on pictures and improvement ideas of others
Cost:
$20/mo per user
Access:
Cloud-based
Mobile:
Yes
Support:
Not Listed
Rating:
Not Rated
With so many wonderful options to choose from in this Continuous Improvement software comparison, how do you decide?
A few things to consider
- Who will use the software?
You want a system that will provide easy access to and connect all who will be interacting with it. Software has changed the game in the way we communicate; why not open a new and potentially powerful channel of communication, especially regarding matters of ongoing improvement - What do you want from your Continuous Improvement Program?
Some CI programs are built around checking boxes and some are designed to get real results. If you’re looking to use CI to advance your company in the direction of it’s strategy, then make sure the software includes features that align CI efforts around the company strategy and not just a tool for tracking random “so called” improvements - What type of culture are you looking to create?
Software affects culture in more ways than we understand. The most powerful force in human nature is the force of habit. Incentives, points systems, and even monetary gain all ultimately lose to the powerful force of habit. In fact, mindset, achievement, company culture, and even excellence itself are all functions of habit. Continuous Improvement focused only on infrequent projects and home run hits are disruptive to culture and the formation of good sustaining habits. Its no different than the couch potato who just jumps up and runs a marathon after no regular practice or training, it can actually cause more damage to your company than good. A more sustainable, less disruptive, and ultimately more beneficial approach is to systematically develop the habits of daily improvement for everyone in your company. Developing this culture means you’ll no longer need game-saving home runs. - What is the technological acumen of your workforce?
It’s not uncommon for there to be some gaps in computer literacy for some people in your company. Additionally, software developers aren’t always as considerate as they need to be for the digitally impaired. Take consideration of how much care and support the software provider has built into their service offering and not just the tool itself. Some will do little more than take your money and send you a URL to log in and go. Some, like Impruver, will actually pair you with a coach who will stick with you until you fully ascend the learning curve; then certify you to help others do the same, providing more than sufficient support to ensure your success. - Who will own the success of the software in your company?
Most companies aren’t in the position to hire a full time resource to oversee the adoption and ongoing use of the software. If this is you, consider a technology that seamlessly integrates into your company’s natural chain of command, driving Continuous Improvement that aligns with the company’s most important work. In fact, if you need to have a support resource just to run the software, then you should also be asking if your CI program itself is a bolt-on (extra work) or if it’s something that’s truly accelerating your company into its own future. - How much money do you want to spend?
CI software ranges from freemium to over $100k per year; and unfortunately the benefits don’t always correlate to the cost. Risk of overpayment is always a factor but some software companies have done a great job to take much of the risk out of the decision process. With the advent of SaaS technology, the true cost of acquisition is shared broadly, vastly bringing down the cost to any individual user. Unless money is no object, you might want to consider a package that allows you to start generating tangible results before you pay much out of pocket.
Continuous Improvement software can be an incredible asset for your journey. It’s important to choose the right tools for the job because the tool itself could become more of a problem than a solution if you’re not careful. Taiicho Ohno, former Toyota executive and creator of the Toyota Production System said “TPS will only be released when all the workers become tortoises.” Project based Continuous Improvement only creates a culture of hares. New software can be exciting (and potentially expensive) but don’t fall for the shiny object that looks and sounds good but doesn’t create the culture of daily improvement that you seek.
then get certified to coach others to do the same.