The 59th Signal Battalion's SigNET: A Proven Lean Six Sigma Implementation
2006 LandWarNet Award Winner: ‘e-Army Initiative’

The 59th Signal Battalion's SigNET DMZ (Data Management Zone) is a user-friendly, dynamic interface of bundled web-based, secure tools that enhance the execution of the unit administration’s mission. It allows users to interface complex databases through a web front end, while creating a net-centric environment for unit collaboration. User accounts and secure accesses are authenticated seamlessly through AKO and MS Active Directory. The DMZ itself keeps users updated through announcements, upcoming events, and other useful tools.

The program applies and helps to enforce DOD directed, Lean Six Sigma (LSS) practices by eliminating waste within the unit administration environment with particular focus on routine and recurring actions that have traditional taken the staff’s time away from more pressing matters. Historically, this waste was represented in various forms to include time, materials, and movement. By eliminating wasted time, Soldiers and civilian employees are able to stay focused on critical missions with fewer resources while improving customer satisfaction and achieving full automation.

In addition, the commander’s intent was to eliminate PowerPoint and Excel as a staff collaboration tool and limit the use of email to staff actions. This tool clearly and precisely meets this intent.

Under the current model, many battalion processes have been automated including:
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• Unit Command & Staff weekly briefing:
  
  Users have permissions to update information critical to their respective section (i.e. S4). Each Wednesday, command briefs the information direct from the tool via Macromedia Breeze to geographically dispersed subordinate unit locations. The data is then archived and consulted for reference purposes, process efficiency studies and reporting.
  
  
• Operations Summary Brief and Report:
  
  Through standardized charts and layouts, users access their specific sections information and update command leadership through the tool.
  
  
• Weekly activity reports and Situation Reports:
  
  Staff representatives log in and update their respective sections of these reports. Once the Battalion Operations Officer has reviewed input, the tool automatically generates a MS Word document which is then submitted direct to higher headquarters for review. Each report is also automatically archived.
  
  
• Hasty Military Decision Making Process (MDMP):
  
  This tool uses a chronological series of unlocking segments to maintain integrity in the process. For example, once the Bn CDR issues guidance to his/her staff verbally and by inputting directly to the tool, other sections “unlock” to allow users to respond and meet his/her intent in preparation of appropriate courses of action. Other “unlockable” sections include a risk assessment, company back brief, and final order.
  
  
• Budget Dashboard:
  
  An automated data pull from DCAS populates these pie charts in real-time. The commander and staff can drill into the data by clicking on (exploring) any pie slices and drilling into post-specific detail. This is a particularly useful feature in the event more information is required during a briefing or if a single user needs to quickly reference this information from their desk.
  
  
• Online Temporary Duty (TDY) and Leave calendar:
  
  This tool is a collaborative, online calendar where users can see the schedules of colleagues prior to scheduling their own time to avoid conflicts. Serves as an excellent source of quick information for commanders and supervisors to view and resolve military and civilian work schedules.
  
  
• Procurement & Purchase request:
  
  A 100% paperless environment which shaves time off the waiting period for purchases. The routing occurs online, and users approve or decline requests within the tool. A process that used to take days is now often accomplished in a matter of hours. This model also provides full archiving and audit ready records.
  
  
• Task management and delegation:
  
  This tool automates management of taskers within the battalion. Provides command oversight and ensures compliance.
  
  
• Weekly Training Brief:
  
  A collaborative, online data housing tool which also allows for real-time presentation right from the tool – no more PowerPoint. It serves as an excellent point of reference for preparation of Quarterly and Semi-annual training briefs to higher commands.
  
  
• Phone bill payment:
  
  This tool allows the budget section to automate their billing management processes, and eliminates the need for numerous contract management spreadsheets. This model also supports a paperless environment. Once bills are received, DD forms (SF1034 & Transmittal) for submission are automatically created in PDF format and can be electronically submitted to accounting for processing.
  
  
• TDY Request and Forecasting Tool:
  
  The TDY request and Forecasting tool (TRF) supports paperless TDY request approvals and full records archiving. In addition, the TRF automatically captures TDY cost information and plots budgets across 30, 60, 90 and 120 day outlooks. This function allows command to proactively secure what funds will be required well ahead of travel. Additional automatic reporting is also provided.

The SigNET DMZ has eliminated the need for the manual routing of MS Excel, PowerPoint and Word files. Custom built web applications facilitate online, real and near-real time collaboration across the unit and subordinate organizations. Processes and requirements like the weekly 'Command & Staff' historically consumed significant labor hours but are now automated and optimized, freeing up valuable resources among Soldiers and staffers alike. The SigNET DMZ will expand as the program identifies more areas to eliminate waste, thus becoming a cornerstone of the Army's continuous improvement strategy.

For More Information, download SigNET White Paper

Contact: Scott Moran, Project Manager
Phone: 907-258-1431