The Parallels of BEE Training and Bees

The parallels of BEE training and bees can be summarized into three basic categories; Systems, Communication, and Methods. We all know the term “Busy as a Bee” which refers to how diligently and constantly bees are working. We often reference a Bee Hive when speaking about team work, or working for the common good. Yet, it is the systems they utilize, the communication they employ and the methods they exercise, that make these busy bees excellent in their field (slight pun intended J). This is also where BEE training parallels the bees, on point! BEE’s Lean Six Sigma training expands upon traditional training programs by including systems thinking, communication skills, and application methods to create a more comprehensive learning experience and forging excellence.

Like BEE trained professionals, honey bees operate within a complex, well organized system. Each bee has a defined role, with tasks that are specific to its current position. There is a continuous flow of the necessary workforce that is symbiotic with the life cycle of the bee. From hive cell emergence to death, bees assume different roles, changing tasks as they mature. These tasks also change with the seasons, allowing them to work in accord with the elements as opposed to combating them. These systems exemplify efficiency and are naturally waste-free.

Communication is paramount in continuing improvement environments.  Without clear and influential communication, the best ideas are unable to be implemented, results will not improve, and errors increase. BEE training includes theory as well as application opportunities to improve communication skills which will facilitate business processes. Honey bees use a complex system of consulting one another before choosing a hive location. Scouts are sent to collect information from the surrounding area, and share the collective data with the swarm. The bees respond and begin to align themselves with the data that shows the best results. They continue to share information with each other until a group consensus has been made and the optimum locale has been selected.

Six Sigma project methods follow a defined sequence of steps and have specific value targets, for example: reduce process cycle time, reduce costs, increase customer satisfaction, and increase profits. Honey bees are natural experts in methods that reduce process cycle time (only necessary actions are performed), reduce cost (no loss of bee energy), increase satisfaction (healthier bees) and increase profits (plentiful honey production). Taking from nature’s example of a highly productive system, with collaborative communication and continually improving methods, BEE ‘s Lean Six Sigma instruction trains people to develop efficient systems, communicate quantifiable data and apply the methods that will achieve the target result of excellence.