EVALUATION OF A3 TOOL IN THE PRODUCTION PROCESS.

Purpose: The purpose of the research is to verify the A3 tools in terms of its use for various production problems. Design/methodology/approach: There is still little research on A3, so further research in this area is essential. Therefore, any additional research in this area is necessary. The research methodology results from the principles of using the A3 tool in enterprises. The A3 tool was used for various problems of the surveyed enterprises. One problem in the form of a case study is also shown: description of the problem related to the production process and the A3 tool was used. Findings: The use of A3 tools in the direct contact production process was presented and evaluated six A3 reports that were carried out in three production companies over a period of 1.5 years. The findings are as follows: 50% of reports were successfully closed, objectives met and all actions performed on time. 33% of the reports showed moderate effectiveness, i.e. one of the criteria was not met. 17% are low-performing reports. Research limitations/implications: More research into and refinement of the A3 tool is being considered in future research directions. Practical implications: The presented results have an impact on enterprises. They allow for more holistic management and dealing with complex problems. Work is more standardized. Originality/value: The value of the work is the assessment of the effectiveness of the A3 tool based on four criteria. The indicated and effectiveness assessment criteria also allow for a structured process of educating company employees in solving problems. The article shows the economic and business dimensions of the conducted research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]