The clinic-scheduling team starts more work than it finishes each iteration. Which flow signal should the SM/TC use first?
Select an answer to reveal the explanation.
Short Explanation
Starting more than you finish is leaving every exam room occupied and nobody discharged. The vital sign is flow load—WIP going up. Speed slogans will not empty the rooms.
Full Explanation
Flow load measures work in process. When a team starts more than it finishes, rising WIP is the primary health signal and a leading indicator of longer flow time. Higher velocity targets, utilization charts, and stretch objectives encourage even more starting. The SM/TC uses flow load to coach finishing, WIP limits, and pull rather than additional commitments.