A core value of Firefly Consulting is advancing the knowledge base of Innovation and Operational Excellence best practices. Below are some of our recent publications and conference presentations.
New Publications
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Doing the Math to Unlock Intelligence from Supplier QuotesPublished by Industry Week, 2023.
Author: Kevin Carson
Topics: Operations, New -
CART: A Data Analysis Tool of Titanic ProportionsPublished by Lean & Six Sigma Review, 2023.
Author: Ian Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Operations, New -
Nine Essential Activities for Building a Robust Quality Management SystemPublished by The Quality Management Forum, 2023.
Author: Chuck Cox
Topics: Operations, New -
Proactive Process Management with Virtual Kanban ToolsPresented to the 2023 Lean and Six Sigma World Conference.
Author: Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Operations, New -
Understanding Workforce Modeling: A Data-Driven ApproachOriginally Published by The Staffing Stream, 2023.
Author: Jeff Kahne
Topics: New -
The Employer: Professional Development and Soft Skills in the SpotlightOriginally Published in Quality Progress, 2022.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: New -
Top Continuous Improvement Projects in Supply Chain DeploymentOriginally Published by Supply & Demand Chain Executive, 2022.
Author: Darrel Whiteley
Topics: Operations, New -
QMS for Data Driven Decision Making and GrowthPresented to the ASQ World Conference on Quality and Improvement, 2022.
Author: Chuck Cox
Topics: Operations, New -
How HR Execs Can Use Operational Excellence To Compete On HiringOriginally Published by Human Resource Executive, 2022.
Authors: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill, Heather Rafferty
Topics: Lean Six Sigma, New -
The Search for Free & Easy-to-Use Data Analysis SoftwarePresentation to the Lean Six Sigma World Conference, 2022.
Author: Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Operations, Lean Six Sigma, New -
A Strong and Freshly Brewed FMEAA case study on using an updated risk management tool to brew great coffee. Published in the Lean & Six Sigma Review, 2022.
Authors: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill, Chuck Cox
Topics: Lean Six Sigma, New -
Operational Excellence and COVID-19: Insights from the Benchmarking StudyPublished in the Quality Management Forum, 2022.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Lean Six Sigma, New -
Improving Your Pricing Strategy – Simple Steps to Increased ProfitsPublished in Industry Week, 2021.
Author: Kevin Carson
Topics: Operations, New -
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Top Four Tips For Creating Insightful Customer Journey MapsPublication in the Professional Association of Customer Engagement, 2021.
Author: Jeff Kahne
Topics: Operations, New -
The Role of Continuous Improvement in Mergers and AcquisitionsPublication in the Quality Management Forum, 2021.
Author: Marshall Ariza
Topics: Operations, New -
Pairing Visualization Strategy and Australian WinePresentation to the 2021 ASQ Lean and Six Sigma Conference.
Author: Lisa Custer
Topics: Operations, New -
Data-Driven Insights with Monte Carlo SimulationPresentation to the 2021 ASQ Lean and Six Sigma Conference.
Author: Chuck Cox
Topics: Operations, New -
7 Steps to Reinvent Your Supply Chain Post COVID-19Publication in Texas CEO Magazine, 2021.
Authors: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill, René Ffrench
Topics: Operations, New -
Zero-Cost Strategies for Warehouse OptimizationPublication in Industrial Distribution and Food Manufacturing, 2020.
Author: Keith Johnson
Topics: Operations, New -
Customer Journey Maps - Client Centricity and Getting the Most from Your Business AnalyticsPresentation to the Professional Association for Customer Engagement (PACE), 2020.
Author: Jeff Kahne, PhD
Topics: Operations, New -
Think of the (Statistical) Possibilities – Applications of Big Data for Process ImprovementPublication in Quality Progress, 2020.
Author: Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Operations, Lean Six Sigma, New, Most Popular -
Simulation Modeling: Understanding Uncertainty Leads to Better Decision MakingPublication in the Quality Management Forum, Spring 2020.
Author: Mark T. Sidote
Topics: Operations, New
Most Popular Publications
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Think of the (Statistical) Possibilities – Applications of Big Data for Process Improvement
Publication in Quality Progress, 2020.
Author: Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Operations, Lean Six Sigma, New, Most Popular -
Getting Started with Big DataIntroduction to advanced analytics with case studies from multiple industries. Presentation to the 2018 Minitab Insights Conference.
Author: Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Operations, New, Most Popular -
Top Four Tips For Creating Insightful Customer Journey Maps
Publication in the Professional Association of Customer Engagement, 2021.
Author: Jeff Kahne
Topics: Operations, New -
How Culture Drives Operational Excellence at AmazonFormer deployment leader shares his lessons learned at Amazon. Keynote Presentation to the 2018 PEX Europe Conference.
Author: Bruno Ternon
Topics: Operations, New, Most Popular -
Improving Your Pricing Strategy – Simple Steps to Increased Profits
Published in Industry Week, 2021.
Author: Kevin Carson
Topics: Operations, New -
Innovation InertiaCreativity and curiosity around customer interactions can fuel innovation efforts. Publication in Lean & Six Sigma Review, 2019.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Innovation, New, Most Popular
Browse by Topic
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Doing the Math to Unlock Intelligence from Supplier Quotes
Published by Industry Week, 2023.
Author: Kevin Carson
Topics: Operations, New -
CART: A Data Analysis Tool of Titanic Proportions
Published by Lean & Six Sigma Review, 2023.
Author: Ian Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Operations, New -
Nine Essential Activities for Building a Robust Quality Management System
Published by The Quality Management Forum, 2023.
Author: Chuck Cox
Topics: Operations, New -
Proactive Process Management with Virtual Kanban Tools
Presented to the 2023 Lean and Six Sigma World Conference.
Author: Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Operations, New -
Top Continuous Improvement Projects in Supply Chain Deployment
Originally Published by Supply & Demand Chain Executive, 2022.
Author: Darrel Whiteley
Topics: Operations, New -
QMS for Data Driven Decision Making and Growth
Presented to the ASQ World Conference on Quality and Improvement, 2022.
Author: Chuck Cox
Topics: Operations, New -
The Search for Free & Easy-to-Use Data Analysis Software
Presentation to the Lean Six Sigma World Conference, 2022.
Author: Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Operations, Lean Six Sigma, New -
Improving Your Pricing Strategy – Simple Steps to Increased Profits
Published in Industry Week, 2021.
Author: Kevin Carson
Topics: Operations, New -
The Role of Continuous Improvement in Mergers and Acquisitions
Publication in the Quality Management Forum, 2021.
Author: Marshall Ariza
Topics: Operations, New -
Pairing Visualization Strategy and Australian Wine
Presentation to the 2021 ASQ Lean and Six Sigma Conference.
Author: Lisa Custer
Topics: Operations, New -
Data-Driven Insights with Monte Carlo Simulation
Presentation to the 2021 ASQ Lean and Six Sigma Conference.
Author: Chuck Cox
Topics: Operations, New -
7 Steps to Reinvent Your Supply Chain Post COVID-19
Publication in Texas CEO Magazine, 2021.
Authors: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill, René Ffrench
Topics: Operations, New -
Think of the (Statistical) Possibilities – Applications of Big Data for Process Improvement
Publication in Quality Progress, 2020.
Author: Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Operations, Lean Six Sigma, New, Most Popular -
Simulation Modeling: Understanding Uncertainty Leads to Better Decision Making
Publication in the Quality Management Forum, Spring 2020.
Author: Mark T. Sidote
Topics: Operations, New -
Accelerating Private Equity Results with Operational ExcellenceDr. Jeff Kahne and Kimberly Watson-Hemphill discuss how operational excellence can accelerate private equity results.
Authors: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill, Jeff Kahne, PhD
Topics: Operations, New -
Make vs. Buy: Steering Clear of the Death SpiralIn his article for IndustryWeek, Kevin Carson explains how to avoid common pitfalls in your analysis of manufacturing costs.
Author: Kevin Carson
Topics: Operations, New -
Getting Started with Improving Your Call Center's EfficiencyKeith Johnson and Heather Rafferty show you how to start implementing operational improvements at your call center.
Authors: Keith Johnson, Heather Rafferty
Topics: Operations, New -
Data Visualizations: In the Realm of Big DataA perspective on how to approach complex problems with data visualization. Presentation for the 2019 ASQ Lean Six Sigma Conference.
Author: Lisa Custer, PhD
Topics: Operations, New -
Measuring Sense of Urgency – A Leadership DilemmaDr. Kahne's original research in change management. Presentation to the 2019 ASQ World Conference.
Author: Jeff Kahne
Topics: Operations, Innovation, New, Most Popular -
Strategy Execution: A Balanced Approach to Driving Results in HealthcareA balanced scorecard and strategy map help optimize both financials and patient experience. Publication in Quality Management Forum, 2019.
Author: Mark T. Sidote
Topics: Operations, Innovation, New -
Mapping the Way – Improve the Customer Experience with Customer Journey MapsIncludes a helpful description of the approach and case study. Publication in Quality Progress, 2018.
Author: Lisa Custer, PhD
Topics: Operations, Innovation, New, Most Popular -
How Culture Drives Operational Excellence at Amazon
Former deployment leader shares his lessons learned at Amazon. Keynote Presentation to the 2018 PEX Europe Conference.
Author: Bruno Ternon
Topics: Operations, New, Most Popular -
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Customer Journey Map - Visualizing the Voice of the CustomerPresentation to the 2017 ASQ Lean Six Sigma Conference.
Author: Lisa Custer, PhD
Topics: Operations, Innovation, Popular -
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Innovation Inertia
Creativity and curiosity around customer interactions can fuel innovation efforts. Publication in Lean & Six Sigma Review, 2019.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Innovation, New, Most Popular -
Measuring Sense of Urgency – A Leadership Dilemma
Dr. Kahne's original research in change management. Presentation to the 2019 ASQ World Conference.
Author: Jeff Kahne
Topics: Operations, Innovation, New, Most Popular -
Strategy Execution: A Balanced Approach to Driving Results in Healthcare
A balanced scorecard and strategy map help optimize both financials and patient experience. Publication in Quality Management Forum, 2019.
Author: Mark T. Sidote
Topics: Operations, Innovation, New -
Creativity – For the Analytical MindFive steps to more innovative project results. Publication in Lean & Six Sigma Review, 2019.
Author: Marshall Ariza
Topics: Innovation, New -
Mapping the Way – Improve the Customer Experience with Customer Journey Maps
Includes a helpful description of the approach and case study. Publication in Quality Progress, 2018.
Author: Lisa Custer, PhD
Topics: Operations, Innovation, New, Most Popular -
Customer Journey Map - Visualizing the Voice of the Customer
Presentation to the 2017 ASQ Lean Six Sigma Conference.
Author: Lisa Custer, PhD
Topics: Operations, Innovation, Popular -
Wine by DesignPresentation to the 2016 Minitab Conference.
Author: Lisa Custer, PhD
Topics: Innovation, Popular -
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Innovation and the Wisdom of CrowdsPresentation to the 2015 ASQ World Conference.
Author: Jeff Kahne, PhD
Topics: Innovation -
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Fast InnovationPresentation to the AME Australia Conferences, Melbourne and Perth, 2015.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Innovation -
Accelerating Innovation with Design for Lean Six SigmaPresentation to the 2013 ASQ Conference, Houston.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Innovation -
Improving Time-to-MarketHow to leverage 3D CAD Data Management for Integrated Product Development; American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Innovation -
Process Innovation - Improving Time-to-MarketPresentation to OPEN Houston's 2011 conference on innovation in energy, technology, and healthcare.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Innovation -
Innovation Trends and Implementation StrategiesPresentation from a recent forum on innovation and technology.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Innovation -
Driving Innovation and Customer FocusPresentation to the 2011 International Lean and Six Sigma Conference.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Innovation -
Foundations of DfLSS: Customer Focus and InnovationPublication in ASQ Quality Management Forum, 2011.
Authors: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill, Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Innovation -
Strategic Product Development with DfLSSPublication in ASQ Quality Management Forum, 2011.
Authors: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill, Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Innovation -
Innovation and Process ExcellenceKeynote presentation to Staples' 2011 Process Excellence Conference.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Innovation -
Best Practices in Design for Lean Six SigmaPresentation to the 2010 International Lean and Six Sigma Conference.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Innovation -
Deploying Design for Lean Six SigmaBy following established best practices, organizations can improve their process for designing new products and services. iSixSigma Magazine, July/August 2010.
Authors: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill, Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Innovation
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How HR Execs Can Use Operational Excellence To Compete On Hiring
Originally Published by Human Resource Executive, 2022.
Authors: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill, Heather Rafferty
Topics: Lean Six Sigma, New -
The Search for Free & Easy-to-Use Data Analysis Software
Presentation to the Lean Six Sigma World Conference, 2022.
Author: Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Operations, Lean Six Sigma, New -
A Strong and Freshly Brewed FMEA
A case study on using an updated risk management tool to brew great coffee. Published in the Lean & Six Sigma Review, 2022.
Authors: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill, Chuck Cox
Topics: Lean Six Sigma, New -
Operational Excellence and COVID-19: Insights from the Benchmarking Study
Published in the Quality Management Forum, 2022.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Lean Six Sigma, New -
Three Essential Questions for Project Charter PerformancePublished on LinkedIn, 2020.
Author: Kimberly McAdams
Topics: Lean Six Sigma -
Unlocking Success: Benchmarking Study Uncovers Best Practices in Lean Six Sigma DeploymentPublication in Lean and Six Sigma Review, 2020.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Lean Six Sigma, New -
Think of the (Statistical) Possibilities – Applications of Big Data for Process Improvement
Publication in Quality Progress, 2020.
Author: Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Operations, Lean Six Sigma, New, Most Popular -
Measuring Lean Six Sigma Deployment: Progress and SuccessPublication in The Quality Management Forum, 2015.
Authors: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill, Lisa Custer, PhD
Topics: Lean Six Sigma -
5 Steps to Implementing Lean in a Growing Business
Publication in Austin Business Journal, 2017.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Operations, Lean Six Sigma, New -
Think Outside the Black Belt Box: Specialized Tools for Transactional ApplicationsPresentation to the 2016 International Lean Six Sigma Conference.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill
Topics: Lean Six Sigma -
How to Get Started in Lean Six Sigma: Choosing the Right Approach for your Organization's NeedsPresentation to the 2016 International Lean Six Sigma Conference.
Author: Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Lean Six Sigma -
Lean Six Sigma in Healthcare: Making Progress In Spite of the ChallengesPresentation to the 2016 Healthcare Systems Process Improvement Conference.
Author: Randy Boyd
Topics: Lean Six Sigma -
From Jets to Janitors: Using LSS in DefensePresentation to the 2015 International Lean Six Sigma Conference.
Author: Jeff Kahne, PhD
Topics: Lean Six Sigma -
Top Five Ways to Improve Your Lean Six Sigma DeploymentPresentation to the 2014 International Lean and Six Sigma Conference.
Author: Kimberly Watson-Hemphil
Topics: Lean Six Sigma -
Identifying and Selecting Good Lean Six Sigma ProjectsPresentation to the 2014 International Lean and Six Sigma Conference.
Topics: Lean Six Sigma
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Business Process Management and Lean Six Sigma
Presentation to the 2013 International Lean and Six Sigma Conference.
Author: Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Lean Six Sigma -
Does Your Deployment Measure Up? Presenting a Lean Six Sigma Maturity ModelPublication in ASQ Quality Management Forum, 2012.
Authors: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill, Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Lean Six Sigma -
How Strong Is Your Deployment? Introducing the Lean Six Sigma Maturity ModelPresentation to the 2012 International Lean and Six Sigma Conference.
Authors: Kimberly Watson-Hemphill, Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Lean Six Sigma -
Implementing Lean Six Sigma in Health Care: Key Differences and OpportunitiesPresentation to the International Lean and Six Sigma Conference.
Topics: Lean Six Sigma
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Keys to Success for Implementing Lean Six Sigma in Non-Manufacturing EnvironmentsPresentation to the 2011 International Lean and Six Sigma Conference.
Author: Kristine Nissen Bradley
Topics: Lean Six Sigma
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