Life Saving Impact through Kaizen: A Gift That Keeps Giving
Executive Director Meg Talbert, Community Engagement Manager Kaitlyn Holloway, Associate Director of Development Molly Biechele, Brian Dandrea of Harmonious, Director of Development & Marketing Stacey Price, Manager of Human Resources Kayla Begnoche
In 2020, Dakin was generously awarded a grant from the Workforce Training Fund through MassMEP, a trusted manufacturing advisor. With the help of grant and process consultant, Brian Dandrea of Harmonious, Dakin embarked on a 3-year journey focused on improving operational efficiency, building and enhancing current programs, team problem solving, and leadership training. Although the Kaizen method originated in the manufacturing industry, the concepts can be applied anywhere. In Dakin’s case, the impact is life-changing for the animals in our care.
At Dakin, every wagging tail, contented purr, and happy adoption story or family kept together is a testament to the tireless efforts of our staff and volunteers and the generosity of our community. Yet, behind these heartwarming moments lies a crucial aspect that ensures lasting positive change: continuous operational improvement. By adopting the Kaizen method, we embarked on a journey that not only enhances the lives of animals but also optimizes the efficiency of our shelter operations thereby enabling us to help more animals and people.
When all procedures from intake to adoption protocols are optimized for maximum efficiency, the power of Kaizen is realized. The Kaizen method revolves around the idea of incremental progress – small, meaningful changes that compound over time streamlining our efforts for maximum efficiency. By focusing on each step of our operations, we identify bottlenecks, eliminate waste, and fine-tune procedures. This not only saves time and resources but also creates an environment that prioritizes well-being.
The true beneficiaries of this approach are, of course, the animals and their families. As we refine our processes, we're able to provide even better care for the animals or those utilizing our services. Whether it's streamlining feeding routines, optimizing medical care workflows, enhancing adoption matching processes, or appropriately allocating or training volunteers, Kaizen ensures that every aspect of the process is improved thereby enhancing the animals’ lives. This means less stress, more individualized attention, and ultimately, a better chance at finding homes.
Our dedicated staff members are the driving force behind our shelter's success. Multiple departments have been involved in the Kaizen sessions, empowering them to contribute their insights and expertise. This not only fosters a culture of teamwork and innovation but also ensures our resources and donations are utilized effectively. Through Kaizen-driven improvements, we stretch every dollar, making investments go even further to create a positive impact for the animals we care for. Brian Dandrea of Harmonious said, "It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional career working with Dakin. The passion the team exhibits while caring for the animals is like no other I have ever witnessed. They have made significant improvements not only in their processes but also in their culture. Continuous improvement is becoming a way of life at the Dakin Humane Society."
Brian Dandrea and Manager of Veterinary Services Mary Jane McGuire
At Dakin, the well-being and happiness of our animals are at the core of everything we do. To ensure that we provide them with the best care possible, we understand the importance of consistently refining our processes, reflecting our core value of innovation. Continuous improvement is not just a buzzword; it's a philosophy that empowers us to refine our processes, enhance efficiency, think outside the box, and drive meaningful change.
Contributed by Stacey Price, Director of Development and Marketing at Dakin Humane Society