Process Improvement Teams – A Vehicle for Change

What is a PIT?

A Process Improvement Team or PIT is a team of people whose combined knowledge of a process is sufficient to make informed decisions as to the future of that process. The term 'PIT' is part of quality management terminology and represents a key method for designing quality into a process and maintaining the effectiveness of the process throughout its life.

How do PITs work?

By drawing together people from all disciplines within a process and developing them into a team with a common purpose, it is possible to review the whole of a process for its own benefit and break down personal interest groups. This involves the use of structured investigation, analysis and evaluation, coupled with a range of collection and presentation techniques to assist in coming to the correct conclusions.

Who should be on a PIT?

There are no rules to say who should be on a PIT but they should all fulfil certain criteria. Every member should be able to speak knowledgeably about their part of the business and should have sufficient authority to make initial commitments without constantly referring back to their parent department. Most importantly, there should be sufficient permanent and temporary members to deal with all aspects of the discussion.

The Benefits

The Drawbacks

Where major changes are required, it may not be possible to set a PIT the correct task and the scope of work could be too great for such a group.

Tips for Success