[To download this poster, visit: https://www.oeconsulting.com.sg/training-presentations] The 4Ms, also known as Man, Method, Machine, and Material, are a systematic framework used in process analysis and improvement across various industries. These four critical elements provide a structured approach to understanding, evaluating, and optimizing processes within an organization. Definition of the 4Ms: - Man: This represents the human element involved in a process or task. It encompasses the skills, knowledge, training, and experience of individuals performing the work. - Method: Method refers to the procedures, techniques, and processes used to complete a task or achieve a specific goal. It examines how work is organized and executed. - Machine: Machine includes the equipment, tools, technology, and machinery used in a process. This category covers both hardware and software components essential to the operation. - Material: Material involves the raw materials, components, and resources required to produce a product or deliver a service. It also considers the quality and availability of materials. The 4M Framework poster is available in two distinct themes: a vibrant color scheme and a professional monochrome version. In both formats, the poster comes in a convenient PDF as well as an editable PPTX format, enabling effortless printing on A3/A4-sized paper from standard office copier machines. This versatile resource can be prominently displayed on employee workstations or distributed alongside problem solving training materials. Furthermore, the 4M Framework poster is an ideal supplement to Lean-related training presentations. It serves as a valuable takeaway, summarizing the core principles of problem solving and root cause analysis and reinforcing the key takeaways from your training.

1. © Operational Excellence Consulting. All rights reserved.
The 4Ms, also known as Man, Method, Machine, and Material, are a systematic framework used in
process analysis and improvement across various industries. These four critical elements provide a
structured approach to understanding, evaluating, and optimizing processes within an organization.
Man
This represents the human element involved in
a process or task. It encompasses the skills,
knowledge, training, and experience
of individuals performing
the work.
4M
Analysis
Material
Material involves the raw materials, components,
and resources required to produce a product
or deliver a service. It also considers
the quality and availability
of materials.
Machine
Machine includes the equipment, tools,
technology, and machinery used in a process.
This category covers both hardware and
software components essential to the operation.
Method
Method refers to the procedures,
techniques, and processes used to complete
a task or achieve a specific goal. It examines
how work is organized and executed.
4M Framework

2. © Operational Excellence Consulting. All rights reserved.
The 4Ms, also known as Man, Method, Machine, and Material, are a systematic framework used in
process analysis and improvement across various industries. These four critical elements provide a
structured approach to understanding, evaluating, and optimizing processes within an organization.
Man
This represents the human element involved in
a process or task. It encompasses the skills,
knowledge, training, and experience
of individuals performing
the work.
4M
Analysis
Material
Material involves the raw materials, components,
and resources required to produce a product
or deliver a service. It also considers
the quality and availability
of materials.
Machine
Machine includes the equipment, tools,
technology, and machinery used in a process.
This category covers both hardware and
software components essential to the operation.
Method
Method refers to the procedures,
techniques, and processes used to complete
a task or achieve a specific goal. It examines
how work is organized and executed.
4M Framework

3. © Operational Excellence Consulting. All rights reserved.
4M Man Method Machine Material
Description This represents the
human element
involved in a process
or task. It
encompasses the
skills, knowledge,
training, and
experience of
individuals performing
the work.
Method refers to the
procedures,
techniques, and
processes used to
complete a task or
achieve a specific
goal. It examines how
work is organized and
executed.
Machine includes the
equipment, tools,
technology, and
machinery used in a
process. This category
covers both hardware
and software
components essential
to the operation.
Material involves the
raw materials,
components, and
resources required to
produce a product or
deliver a service. It also
considers the quality
and availability of
materials.
Factors for
Analysis
1. Skill level of workers
2. Training and
development
3. Experience and
expertise
4. Workforce
availability and
staffing levels
5. Motivation and
morale of
employees
6. Attitude and
behavior of
employees
1. Process flow and
sequence
2. Standard operating
procedures (SOPs)
3. Work instructions
4. Workflow efficiency
5. Workload
distribution
6. Safety protocols
7. Communication
1. Equipment reliability
and maintenance
2. Technology and
automation levels
3. Capacity and
capability of
machines
4. Availability of spare
parts
5. Software and control
systems
1. Quality of raw
materials
2. Availability and supply
chain reliability
3. Storage and handling
of materials
4. Material wastage and
scrap rates
5. Environmental impact
of materials
4M Framework

4. © Operational Excellence Consulting. All rights reserved.
4M Man Method Machine Material
Description This represents the
human element
involved in a process
or task. It
encompasses the
skills, knowledge,
training, and
experience of
individuals performing
the work.
Method refers to the
procedures,
techniques, and
processes used to
complete a task or
achieve a specific
goal. It examines how
work is organized and
executed.
Machine includes the
equipment, tools,
technology, and
machinery used in a
process. This category
covers both hardware
and software
components essential
to the operation.
Material involves the
raw materials,
components, and
resources required to
produce a product or
deliver a service. It also
considers the quality
and availability of
materials.
Factors for
Analysis
1. Skill level of workers
2. Training and
development
3. Experience and
expertise
4. Workforce
availability and
staffing levels
5. Motivation and
morale of
employees
6. Attitude and
behavior of
employees
1. Process flow and
sequence
2. Standard operating
procedures (SOPs)
3. Work instructions
4. Workflow efficiency
5. Workload
distribution
6. Safety protocols
7. Communication
1. Equipment reliability
and maintenance
2. Technology and
automation levels
3. Capacity and
capability of
machines
4. Availability of spare
parts
5. Software and control
systems
1. Quality of raw
materials
2. Availability and supply
chain reliability
3. Storage and handling
of materials
4. Material wastage and
scrap rates
5. Environmental impact
of materials
4M Framework

5. © Operational Excellence Consulting. All rights reserved. 5
Operational Excellence Consulting is a management training and consulting
firm that assists organizations in improving business performance and
effectiveness. Based in Singapore, the firm’s mission is to create business
value for organizations through innovative design and operational excellence
management training and consulting solutions. For more information, please
visit www.oeconsulting.com.sg