Continuous Improvement in Action: Kaizen-Inspired Onboarding for Healthcare Employees

Abstract

Kaizen is a Japanese word which translates to change or improvement, and it is the cornerstone of several process improvement systems. In the learning and development (L&D) space, we are always seeking ways to improve and become more efficient and effective. This case study updates a previous one from two years ago. Through the kaizen of our onboarding and training program, we have seen an increase in employee longevity after completing our five-day new hire onboarding program. This improved program integrated a flipped classroom design and inclusion of multiple learning management system (LMS)-based courses, among other changes. We also gave managers choices for their new employees’ onboarding program. In addition to double the number of employees being hired and onboarded, we also saw an increase of 6 percent in employees staying beyond the 180-day mark. We offer some suggestions to help streamline the onboarding process even further.