The use of the A3 management process

Abstract

As revealed by the headline, this article will provide a general description of the A3 tool. The tool is to be utilized by an assembled group of people and is most commonly used for problem-solving by implementing PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) management[1]. The tool is utilized by following a series of specific steps, such as describing the current condition, making a root cause analysis, deciding on countermeasures etc. and can be applied to almost any kind of problem across several industries. The A3 tool was developed by Toyota in the 1960s [1] and its name derives from the A3 paper dimension, as this format was the largest faxable format, which enabled the Toyota employees to share their newly acquired knowledge [3].

In addition to the description of each step contained in the A3, this wiki will also provide a description of the mindset and way of thinking that one must approach each step with, and the A3 holistically. This is presented through seven elements that each address their own aspect of the mindset which, when combined, make up the entirety[2].

Although there are additional applications of the A3, this wiki focuses on the A3 as a tool for problem-solving. An example of another application for the A3 is e.g. for training and learning purposes with regards to root-cause analysis[1].

Lastly, the limitations of the A3 will be stated, by defining when, where and by whom the tool is not applicable. It is important to know that not every problem needs to be anchored and solved by the utilization of an A3 approach as this will take too much time[2].