Program Description - std7501990013

DOE-STD-7501-99

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Overview

3.1

Use of lessons learned is a principal component of an organizational culture committed to

continuous improvement. The methods used to instill lessons learned as part of the culture vary,

as do the mechanisms for identifying, sharing and using lessons learned. The nature of the work

and the complexity of the organization are prime determinants of cultural and infrastructure support

for lessons learned. Cultural methods often include setting expectations, providing support and

incentives, monitoring and feedback, and continuous improvement. Infrastructure mechanisms

typically include clear definition of resources, processes, procedures by which personnel are

supported to identify, share and use lessons learned. The infrastructure mechanisms are often

referred to as Lessons Learned Programs. Lessons Learned Programs include two basic

processes. The first is a development process that includes identification, documentation,

validation, and dissemination of a lesson learned. The second is a utilization and incorporation

process that includes identification of applicable lessons learned, distribution to appropriate

personnel, identification of actions that will be taken as a result of the lesson learned, and follow-up

to ensure that appropriate actions were taken. In addition to these elements, lessons learned

programs contain processes to measure operational performance improvement and program

effectiveness.

The DOE Corporate Lessons Learned Program consists of a number of locally tailored programs

and a headquarters coordinating function referred to as the Lessons Learned Lead Office (EH).

The local programs include those of DOE headquarters and field elements as well as those of

DOE contractors. Due to the diverse nature of DOE work and contract types, the infrastructure

mechanisms for lessons learned must be tailored at each local level. DOE organizations should

tailor their own processes in accordance with local Functions, Responsibilities, and Authorities

documents. For contractor organizations the local contractor mechanisms should be tailored

through agreement with the locally responsible DOE organization and should consider interface

agreements in cases where multiple contractors are performing work under the direction of the

same local DOE organization. The function of the Lessons Learned Lead Office is to link the local

programs together and facilitate sharing of lessons with all DOE and contractor organizations,

other government agencies, industry and the public.