In this episode, we interview Jennifer Peterson, the manager of Continuous Improvement at Muscatine Power and Water (MPW) in Muscatine, Iowa. She discusses how she got into continuous improvement (CI) and the impact it has had on MPW employees and customers.She highlights the importance of:* Creating a culture of continuous improvement: encourages employees to identify areas for improvement and provides them with the resources and support to make changes



* Using data to drive decision-making: using metrics to track progress and identify areas where further improvement is needed



* Engaging employees at all levels: involving employees in CI events and empowers them to make changes



* Learning from others: MPW is a member of the Iowa Lean Consortium and has learned from other organizations, including Mary Greeley Medical CenterJennifer also shares several examples of successful CI projects at MPW, including:* Improving the travel process: MPW implemented a new software application that streamlined the travel booking process and reduced frustration for employees.



* Eliminating a cumbersome process: MPW identified a process that was no longer needed and eliminated it, saving time and resources.



* 5S-ing a maintenance shop: MPW improved the organization and ergonomics of a maintenance shop, making it a better place to work.She also shares some examples of apply Lean at home for conducting youth softball tryouts, and how she has helped continuously improve it year over year. She also was excited when her husband wanted help organizing his garage after many years.Jennifer’s insights provide valuable lessons for any organization looking to implement or improve its CI program, especially if you work within a government or quasi-government agency like a utility company.Listen to the podcast on this page, or watch the video below, or go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bq7FPM9nMYI



Links* Jennifer Peterson – LinkedIn



* Muscatine Power and Water (MPW)



* Iowa Lean Consortium



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