Lean university: applying the ECRS method to improve an administrative process

Abstract

This paper presents a case study for an improvement method applied in “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, Romania. The ECRS method has its roots in manufacturing, specifically in improvement processes. The novelty lies in applying this method in Higher Education. Considering the existing know-how in process improvements of the human resource from the University and the importance of quality in the organisation’s performance, this paper sought to focus on using one of the most important principles of lean manufacturing in the administrative sector. An observation form was designed in order to analyse the process and by using the ECRS method and brainstorming for ideas with key stakeholders, the time needed by final-year students in order to complete the “University check-out” form was reduced.