Last Planner® System as a problem solving framework

Last Planner® System (LP®S) reduces uncertainty and brings stability. However, when we put LP S in a problem solving framework we realize that the core of LP®S is based on two problem solving techniques: (1) Root Cause Analysis and (2) GROW model (Goal-Reality-Obstacle/Option-Way forward).

During the LP®S use-

We set milestones for an activity - We set goal (G)
We do the reality (R) check during the brainstorming sessions and look ahead planning
We look for obstacles (O) i.e. constraints analysis and find options (O) to deal with the constraints
We go ahead and execute the plan that’s our way forward (W)
Next we ask "why" five times which is a popular root cause analysis technique

LP®S planning protocol can be explained using these two problem solving techniques and they encompass George Pólya's method in "How to solve it?”
Pólya suggests the following steps when solving a mathematical problem:

1. First, understand the problem.
2. After understanding, make a plan.
3. Carry out the plan.
4. Look back on your work.
5. Analyze, how could it be better?

There is a scope of future research in applying different problem solving techniques and models to the problem of unpredictability of production plans and testing if other approach gives better results.

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