Figure 2.7

Progress toward a defined target

If targets are used, they should be realistic and achievable. The graph shown by itself in Figure 2.7 infers that the target will be met.

A control chart, as shown in Figure 2.8 for example, may lead you to question the assumption that the defined target will be met. Different types of actions are needed to influence the overall totals for systems in control versus systems out of control.

Notice how axis scale selection can significantly influence the impression given. Additionally, horizontal grid lines can make control lines difficult to read.

Figure 2.8

Should I take any action??

What kind of action?

System stability must be considered

A chart such as the one shown in Figure 2.9 will help you determine where to focus attention to have the most impact on the overall rate. In this chart, consideration is given to both components of the overall rate to determine what contributes the most to the total.

Figure 2.9

What contributes the most to the total?

Focus on the vital few

The graph shown in Figure 2.10 tells you whether high and/or medium priority actions are dominating the overdue items. It also shows historical trends for overdue items for each priority level and for the total overdue. If your presentation is in color, you can choose traditional colors to indicate priority levels (red showing danger for high priority overdue items, yellow showing warning for medium priority, and green indicating low priority).