Combine small activities into composite activities
A technique for combining smaller tasks into larger ones to reduce setup times and improve the quality of work.
Reijers, H., & Liman Mansar, S. (2005). Best practices in business process redesign: an overview and qualitative evaluation of successful redesign heuristics. Omega, 33(4)
Task Combination is a process optimization technique that involves combining smaller tasks into larger ones. This technique reduces setup times, which are the time that resources need to become familiar with the specifics of a case, and can improve the quality of work. However, it is important to strike a balance between the size of the tasks and their workability. Tasks that are too large can result in smaller run-time flexibility and lower quality. Smaller tasks, on the other hand, can result in longer setup times.
By finding the optimal balance, organizations can achieve the best of both worlds: shorter setup times, higher quality, and greater flexibility.
Foundational free Patterns
Consider automating activities
Establish a case-based mindset
Remove batch-processing and periodic activities from your business process
Reduce the number of contacts with customers and third parties
Elevate physical constraints by applying new technology
Move activities to more appropriate places
Let products appear greener
Let customers interact with the company wherever they want to
Reassign tasks along the organisational hierarchy
Delegate tasks according to resource cost
Consider the division of a general activity into two or more alternative activities
Collect similar work items and work in batches