Creating an Environment of Continuous Improvement

About the Program

Category: County Administration and Management (Best in Category)

Year: 2016

Suffolk County continually seeks to improve the process and product of government decision-making. In 2015, Performance Management partnered with Stony Brook University to design and provide extensive training. The training was directed specifically to designated groupings of executives, project leaders and facilitators. Each played a direct role in fostering a culture of continual improvement whereby employees are equipped with the analytical tools and supportive culture of innovation and meaningful change. Focus group discussions with employees were the first step in assessing the climate of performance and morale within a government structure that had endured change associated with economic downturn and storm recovery. Extensive training modules were developed that focused on a continuous improvement culture, inclusive of improved communication and project management skills required to support an environment of change. Training began with the highest level of government, including the County Executive, his cabinet and all of the Commissioners of County departments. It was then delivered to staff County-wide. A training video was developed for the balance of employees that didn’t receive the in-person training and is being delivered in facilitated groups with County facilitators. In-depth training produced a cadre of improvement initiatives that were undertaken with facilitation from Stony Brook in guided facilitation work groups where outcomes can be achieved, measured and tracked. A culture of continuous improvement is taking. An incipient culture of continuous improvement is emerging. Opportunities to streamline government and create new efficiencies have begun to be identified.