General Session: Quest Diagnostics' "Lean in the Lab" initiative optimizes lab layout and process flow

Identify and eliminate non-value-added activities from laboratory processes and sample flows to increase lab productivity and save time and money. Chris Harris examines Quest's use of lean tools and principles to optimize up-front processes and to design facility layouts that support streamlined lab activities. He details the data collection methods, value stream mapping, Systematic Layout planning, activity relationships, and automation technology that have increased throughput, reduced testing TAT, and lowered cost. He provides a before-and-after look at results from Quest’s "Lean in the Lab" pilot project, and identifies the activity and equipment constraints that require extra attention.

• Christopher Harris, Lean Master Blackbelt - Quest Diagnostics