Air Force Smart Operations for the 21st Century Published June 12, 2015 By Staff Reports 82nd Force Support Squadron SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Making continuous improvements can be a challenge, especially for day-to-day activities. The Air Force Smart Operations for the 21st Century is taking on an eight-step process to make it easier for Air Force members to eliminate waste in the workspace. AFSO21 is a method that helps to identify waste such as long wait times, defects, overproduction, excess inventory and over-processing. Some may say, "That is the way we've always done it!". However, if working overtime and weekends for a customer who sits frustrated in line is the process to get the mission accomplished, it's time to make a change to that system. The goal for the new initiative is to make life better for the unit and in turn the customers. The objective of the AFSO21 process is to add value for each customer using the eight-step model which includes, (1) clarify and validate the problem (2) break down the problem and identify performance gaps (3) set improvement target (4) determine root causes (5) develop countermeasures (6) see countermeasures through (7) confirm results and process; (8) standardize successful processes. Personnel are empowered to make positive changes, while letting each voice be heard, which can help with mission success. With positive changes, even the skeptics can be convinced and perhaps enthused about changes. AFSO21 shows results by saving time, cost, and making customer satisfaction happen. Got a process improvement idea? Contact 82d FSS, Manpower Office at 676-4935, or 82FSS.FSMM@sheppard.af.mil for more information or to get started.