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Lean by Design delves into the dynamic world of biotech, pharma, and life sciences, focusing on operational excellence through effective workflow and process optimization. Join hosts Oscar Gonzalez and Lawrence Wong as they engage with industry leaders who share their insights, innovative strategies, and real-world experiences in transforming complex challenges into streamlined, efficient solutions. Through thought-provoking conversations, you’ll gain practical tips and inspiration to drive continuous improvement and success in your organization. Produced by Sigma Lab Consulting, Lean by Design empowers you to enhance productivity and innovation, one process at a time. Listen on Spotify, iTunes, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
31 Episodes
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Send us a text Why Operational Excellence is Biopharma’s Next Competitive Advantage In this special cofounder episode of Lean by Design, Oscar Gonzalez and Lawrence Wong pull back the curtain on the ideas behind Oscar’s upcoming book—and the operational realities that inspired it. The core message? The biggest risks in biopharma often don’t come from the science. They come from fragile systems, tribal knowledge, and disconnected processes that silently slow teams down or bring them to a grind...
Send us a text In this episode, we introduce a new approach to operational excellence, one built for the realities of today’s biopharma landscape. As the industry faces tighter budgets and widespread restructuring, the pressure to “do more with less” has never been higher. But when you can’t fix everything, where should you start? We share how Sigma Lab Consulting helps clients focus on the workflows that matter most—those that, if broken, pose the greatest risk to execution, decision-making,...
Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with Bogdan Knezevic, co-founder and CEO of Kaleidoscope, to talk about a growing challenge in life sciences R&D: making smart decisions when data is scattered across teams, tools, and partners. Bogdan explains why disconnected systems lead to costly delays, duplicate experiments, and missed opportunities. He shares how the shift from academic to industry research, where projects are shared, not siloed, requires better workflows, clearer handoff...
Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with David Hirschfeld, 35-year software veteran and founder of Tekyz, to talk about why designing workflows before you start building is critical for sustainable growth. We explore how the speed of modern tools and AI can create a dangerous illusion of progress, causing teams to skip planning and discovery. David challenges the common “build while flying” mindset and explains why taking time to think first actually speeds you up. You’ll also hear hi...
Send us a text Have you ever started a project only to realize you’re building something your leaders never asked for? You’re not alone. In this episode of Lean by Design, we sit down with Marcelo Calbucci, a veteran of Amazon, Microsoft, and multiple startups, to explore the PRFAQ Framework, Amazon’s secret weapon for aligning strategy and execution. By drafting a mock press release and FAQ before a single line of code is written, teams force themselves to clarify vision, spot roadblocks, an...
Send us a text Have you ever watched a rowing team give it their all only to spin in circles? That’s exactly how we feel when our teams pour in effort without clear roles and responsibilities. In this episode of Lean by Design, we explore how vague decision‐making and overlapping tasks quietly drain momentum, leading to missed deadlines and frustrated teams. We’ll share how defining ownership, fostering psychological safety, and using simple digital tools can align everyone’s efforts so your ...
Send us a text In this episode, we explore how small, intentional improvements—not sweeping changes—drive real progress in biopharma operations. The discussion highlights a common challenge: the disconnect between strategy and execution, often due to underutilized middle management. You'll learn a simple framework for creating meaningful change: start within your sphere of influence, map key inputs and outputs, and implement solutions that reduce effort while increasing visibility. Small wins...
Send us a text Unlock the potential of Smartsheet for the biopharma industry with strategies that can transform project management. Can a minimalist approach to Smartsheet integration enhance team efficiency and adaptability? In this final part of our series on change management, we explore practical insights drawn from thousands of workflows designed to empower R&D and clinical operations with tailored, compliant solutions. This episode dives deep into overcoming the unique challenges o...
Send us a text Is it possible to build a culture of accountability without slipping into micromanagement? In this episode of Lean by Design, we dig into strategies for fostering responsibility and efficiency in high-stakes environments like biopharma. Explore how tools like Smartsheet can shift team dynamics from routine updates to meaningful, strategic conversations that drive real progress. We'll unpack practical steps for assigning tasks, setting clear expectations, and helping team memb...
Send us a text Struggling to secure team buy-in for Smartsheet adoption in a high-stakes, fast-paced environment? In this episode of Lean by Design, we explore the strategies that drive effective implementation in the intricate world of biopharma, where workflows are complex and evolving. Discover actionable insights to streamline processes, boost data transparency, and reduce administrative burdens, allowing teams to focus on what truly matters. This episode delves into the steps needed to...
Send us a text In this episode of Lean by Design, we’re joined by Lisa Bodell, CEO of FutureThink, to unpack a counterintuitive truth: complexity is innovation’s worst enemy. From her days in advertising to her role as a simplicity guru in biopharma, Lisa shares a journey fueled by one mission—cutting through the noise to make work... actually work. Together, we get real about the meeting marathons, inbox floods, and busyness obsession that cloud judgment and strangle creativity. Lisa doesn’t...
Send us a text Ever wondered how continuous improvement can propel your organization's growth to new heights? In this episode of Lean by Design, host Oscar Gonzalez delves into innovative strategies drawn from recent projects. Discover how you can transform data into meaningful metrics that drive success and ensure everyone is aligned with clear, visible guidelines. Explore actionable tips for leveraging comprehensive checklists and team guidance to enhance workflow efficiency. Learn how maki...
Send us a text Ever wondered how to supercharge your company's operations without expanding your team? In this episode of Lean by Design, host Oscar Gonzalez reveals innovative strategies from a recent project with a dynamic 100-person company. Discover how you can enhance workflow efficiency by reimagining and optimizing your existing data and documentation. Explore actionable tips for transforming digital assets like PowerPoint slides and governance documents into powerful tools that drive ...
Send us a text -Effective Project Portfolio Management Strategies -Challenges and Opportunities in PPM Tools -Implementing Technology in Organizational Processes -Effective Deployment of PPM Tools IDC White Paper: The Power of Next-Gen Project and Portfolio Managementhttps://www.smartsheet.com/inside-smartsheet/research/IDC-project-portfolio-management-whitepaper Thank you to our sponsor, Sigma Lab Consulting. Join the book waitlist: https://sigmalabconsulting.fillout.com/t/cjWN43iB...
Send us a text - Unpacks insights from ISPE Facilities of the Future Conference - Focuses on sustainability and digital evolution in pharma - Next-gen facilities are efficient and eco-friendly - Shift to interconnected data systems revolutionizes research - Tools like Benchling streamline data and asset management - Networking fosters collaboration and innovation - Personal anecdotes highlight importance of authentic interactions - Emphasizes connections shaping industry's future Thank you t...
Send us a text - Unexpected team bonding and strategic planning during a snowed-in off-site retreat at Sigma Lab Consulting - Reflecting on past year's successes and future opportunities - Team cohesion and unique problem-solving approach leading to repeat engagements with diverse clients - Integrating Lean Six Sigma with deep industry knowledge for success in pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical consulting - The importance of relationship building and personal connections in niche consulting...
Send us a text - Boost R&D team efficiency through collaboration and accountability - Address inefficiencies in most R&D projects - Cultivate a successful life sciences workplace culture - Refine data for actionable insights and shared ownership - Align project goals with corporate objectives - Optimize equipment scheduling for lab efficiency - Balance detailed monitoring with key metrics - Promote teamwork, real-time communication, and delay prevention - Streamline project management...
Send us a text - Highlight the critical importance of a robust asset management strategy. - Discuss maintenance scheduling, coordination, and the power of clear communication. - Emphasize post-service rituals to ensure optimal equipment performance. - Share personal experiences and lessons learned from overlooked maintenance. - Advocate for dialogue among technicians, scientists, and coordinators. - Dive deep into mastering equipment maintenance for lab resilience and efficiency. Thank you t...
Send us a text - Discover actionable strategies for success, including data-driven decisions and effective communication. - Learn why operational excellence involves refining resources, not just adding them. - Unlock the power of performance metrics and turning concerns into quantifiable data. - Explore making lasting workflow adjustments and the value of reeducation over punishment. - Celebrate the unsung heroes of process improvement and their impact on corporate goals. - Foster a culture o...
Send us a text - Uncover the potential of inventory management for business success. - Dive into laboratory inventory and budget management intricacies. - Learn the art of categorizing items in databases and tracking consumable usage. - Explore unique inventory challenges in manufacturing, including traceability and equipment reliability. - Discover smarter solutions reshaping inventory management, from technology integration to proactive planning. - Transform your operations with effective i...
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