A structured problem-solving approach that uses a lean tool called the A3 Problem-Solving Report. The term "A3" represents the paper size historically used for the report (a size roughly equivalent to 11" x 17").




What is A3 Problem Solving

The name “A3” is actually derived from a standard European paper size similar to 11” by 17”. The A3 Report is based upon the Plan, Do, Check, Act (PDCA) Method. The PDCA process is sometimes referred to as the Deming Wheel or Deming Circle. The A3 Report incorporates this basic premise to problem solving and continuous improvement.


The A3 Report and the A3 way of thinking are valuable tools for Lean initiatives and for integrating a problem solving culture throughout the organization.

The A3 Report and the A3 way of thinking are valuable tools for Lean initiatives and for integrating a problem solving culture throughout the organization.


Plan

• Define the Problem
• Breakdown it into pieces
• Define Goals
• Root Cause Analysis
• Counter Measures

Do

• Implementation is an important step here.

Check

• Monitoring   

Act 

• Standerdize the process changes based on the improvement ideas . Its a good practice to perform a short Things Gone Right / Things Gone Wrong (TGR/TGW) exercise and document in the A3 report

A 3 Process is helpful in building critical thinking in team members. 

Here is a template which you can make use of