The Seven Levels to Lubrication Excellence

"Once begun, you're halfway done."

- Jim Fitch

Rome was not built in a day. Transformational change takes time. You've heard the expression, "once begun, you're halfway done."

But what are the milestones along the way? In other words, what are the stages or levels of transformation on the pathway to excellence? How can they be described in the most basic terms? That's the subject of my column today.

The seven levels are in sequential order. Some organizations may elect to skip or leapfrog over two or more levels. Others may realize the virtue of getting a few small wins first before moving on to higher levels. There could be danger or pitfalls in moving too fast.

Slow and steady wins the race. Moving rapidly through the levels may be more achievable if you are counseled by an experienced person or team who has step-staged through these levels before.

Defining Seven Levels of Excellence

The one-word descriptive titles of each level are listed to the right. The chart that follows provides a more detailed explanation of the meaning of these words. You can read through these descriptions to approximate the level your plant and team are at today. Better yet, have an independent auditor give you an unbiased assessment.