Originally Published 2.14.2017

MAKATI CITY, Philippines- February 3, 2017, Last day of Six Sigma PH’s Belt class (Wave 21), Paul William V. Flores, gained his Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification after helping one of the shipping and logistics companies here in the Philippines save a projected amount of 14M annually.

In his brief testimonial, Paul shared the story of his project. He shared as he faced the roadblocks that he encountered, and inspired everyone by stating how he turned them into milestones.

He mentioned a few tips and words of encouragement for the graduating class to pursue their Green Belt Certification. He even agreed to an interview with us to reach further Filipino professionals to inspire them as well. So, further, this article is our one-on-one interview with Mr. Flores. Go ahead, gather some tips, and Be Inspired!

     Q. What prompted you to take the Lean Six Sigma Workshop? 

     A. What prompted me to take Lean Six Sigma technically is the simplicity of the methodology, its data-driven process improvement method helps me to tell stories to my clients and the management. Career-wise, it really boosts your morale and leadership ability to influence others and is effective in changing a person’s mindset.
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     Q. What Prompted you to start your project?

    A. What prompted me to start my project is the Strategic Initiatives of the Company to solve a specific problem that affects their business process and earnings.

     Q. What was your project about?

     A. The Project is about the Optimization of Vessel Maintenance Management. The problem was From January – December 2015, the unplanned downtime per ship was at an average of 2.64 days, while the target was 1 day, this resulted in additional revenue loss resulting in PhP 250,000.00 per Vessel / Day. The goal was to reduce the average unplanned downtime from 2.64 days to 1.64 days by the end of September 2016.

     Q. What was it like for you, starting up and executing your own project?

     A. It is quite difficult at first because of the unavailability of the people involved and also the mindset. But data really helped me tell the story. They became more cooperative and supportive throughout the project.

     Q. What were the results of your project?

     A. We have addressed the problems affecting the delays in the process. Addressing the Top Drivers, We were able to eliminate wasted time by focusing on the customer’s need via forecasting and continuous communication Tailor fitting it to the client’s procedure. The Network upgrade helps the expedition of repairs. The standard deviation is lowered from 3.7256 to 1.4711 this big drop has compressed the days to process to 1-2 days from the old data of 3-12 days. Aside from the standard deviation.

     Q. What was the impact of your project on your company?
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     A. With the number of vessels we have (14) we lose Php 660,000.00 each day per vessel for any unplanned downtime averaging 2.64 days. We save Php 250,000.00 each day per vessel for any unplanned downtime averaging it for 1.64 days. With our forecasted downtime, we saved Php 14M.

"That's one reason why companies give high value to Certified Lean Six Sigma individuals. One does not just attend a program and receive his certification but has to successfully apply and show proper use of tools and methodology with actual work processes. One has to earn his Lean Six Sigma certification,"- Rex Tuozo, “The Six Sigma Guy”

     Q. What was the impact of being a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt on you as an individual?

     A. The impact is very overwhelming; you earn respect from your bosses and colleagues plus they give you recognition. Other companies now are trying to get you especially when they know what you have done and what the reason behind your certification is.

     Q. What would be your message to those who are currently taking/planning to take the Green Belt Program or those who are currently conducting their own projects?
     
     A. It will never be easy because the prize is really expensive. Never lose hope, Focus on the Goal, and when you feel lost, always go back to the problem statement. Always ask questions to the other Blackbelts and Greenbelts, and if you’re not trained yet, enroll now!

​To be certified in Lean Six Sigma, one has to complete an actual Lean Six Sigma project and apply process improvement tools, methodology, and techniques learned in class. "That's one reason why companies give high value to Certified Lean Six Sigma individuals. One does not just attend a program and receive his certification but has to successfully apply and show proper use of tools and methodology with actual work processes. One has to earn his Lean Six Sigma certification," Tuozo said. "If you attend our Lean Six Sigma programs, unlike other training providers, you get continuous support after the program, for no additional cost. You'll be assigned a Black Belt to help you complete your project," Tuozo added.

"If you attend our Six Sigma programs, unlike other training providers, you get continuous support after the program, for no additional cost. You'll be assigned a Black Belt to help you complete your project," –Rex Tuozo, “The Six Sigma Guy"

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