Continuous improvement is a proven, problem-solving approach designed to help teams enhance everyday processes, services, and products. It shares tools, technologies, and training to review everyday processes regularly and make incremental and breakthrough improvements in their efficiency. The result strengthens collaborations, centres wellbeing and joy in our work, and opens more time for teaching, research, and student supports. It also empowers knowledge experts - like you! - to shape a culture of positive change, because those closest to a process are best positioned to improve it.
The methodology we follow is Lean Six Sigma (LSS) which is the predominate continuous improvement approach practiced internationally by many Higher Education institutions.
In Fall 2024, UTM launched an immersive Continuous Improvement Program for all members of our community that includes multiple tiers of engagement:
Training
Learn alongside colleagues and earn a Lean Six Sigma certification.
Collaboration
Draw support from the Project Management Office for process improvement initiatives.
Resources
Leverage our tools and templates and put them into practice with your own processes and team!
Earn a Lean Six Sigma Certification
Grounded in peer-reviewed scholarship, Lean Six Sigma is implemented by many industries, including higher education staff at all levels.
The UTM Project Management Office is proud to offer Lean Six Sigma training to departments and units across the campus at no cost. It is designed to provide leaders and their teams with a shared methodology to approach problem-solving, enhance communication and collaboration, and empower teams to make incremental improvements in their day-to-day work.
Our training program includes:
Lean Six Sigma White Belt
offerings for both senior leaders and all staff.
90 minute session
Watch our 60 minute White Belt recording here!
Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt
for both UTM supervisors and staff who execute processes.
8 hour session (2 hours x 4 days)
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
for those who wish to lead substantial improvement projects.
Pilot launched in 2025.
Upon completion, our newly certified Lean Six Sigma Practitioners will be trained to implement these tools into their own work and practice a cycle of continuous improvement within their teams, grounded in support from the PMO and Community of Practice.
Lean Six Sigma Training Schedule
Training is now offered regularly throughout the year. While spaces are limited at this time, we invite you to submit our Lean Six Sigma Training Form to express your interest.
Pillars of our Continuous Improvement Program
Improving the Way We Work
Lean Six Sigma provides us with the tools to develop better processes so that you can eliminate the 'rock in your shoe' and be empowered to drive change.
Foundations of Process Mapping Workshop
Mapping your processes will help you and your team build shared understanding, identify inefficiencies, and uncover opportunities to improve processes.
Tools and Templates
Whether you are leading a project, or re-evaluating a current process, our resources will guide you every step of the way. Start exploring our library of resources below.
Project Management Community of Practice
Growth doesn't happen in a vacuum. Join our community where members come together to learn, share knowledge, and network.
Our vision for the Continuous Improvement Program is to empower every staff member to innovate and enhance their processes, leading to:
Sustainable growth
Increased adaptability
Enhanced employee engagement & job satisfaction
Higher quality outcomes for process stakeholders