Potatoes!

[Insert big, long sigh here.]

Day One of MPH training is complete!

"MPH" stands for "Mister Potato Head." And it was the simulation used to help a group of hospital directors figure out how to use Lean methodologies in their departments. We know we're not cranking out patients here, but many of the methodologies used in factories actually relate to the hospital setting.

It is pretty hilarious to see all these uptight and proper people, flailing through a Mr. Potato Head assembly line (picture hands, glasses, and noses flying everywhere), to replicate a manufacturing environment. We created the first assembly line to be purposefully slow and bottleneck-y and we let the group create process changes that would streamline the assembly process.

Except that when we allowed them to make changes to the process, we also increased the productivity demands and made them output more product with less time. That's *exactly* what happens in the hospital!

Soon, even the stoic, old-school directors were laughing and joining in the fun. The day consisted of other activities and break-out sessions, but MPH was the conversation point of the day. I don't think anyone will look at a MPH the same way, ever again.

I know I won't...especially after setting up the simulation and seeing 30+ naked, blank potato heads in a Rubbermaid box! Aaugh! Aaaaugh! My eyes!