Here's an introductory approach to Business Process Improvement based on the foundation Lean Six Sigma methodology.

Depending on the urgency and timeline desired, a work breakdown structure (WBS) would be defined to meet the schedule and assessment final report needs of the project. If quick action is needed, Kaizen is applied interviewing active Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to walk through the existing process and examine workflow to determine specific areas of improvement needed. The Kaizen is basically a highly compressed business process improvement week long effort that expects quick turn-around from a group of resources. If time is allowed for observation and an individual is leading the effort then it's recommended Lean Six Sigma be applied -- Define, Measure, Analysis, Improve, and, if desired, Control (DMAIC) phases applied determine and apply the improvements opportunities. An assessment would target determining the status of the current process and identifying improvement opportunities.  Generally, adequate time (approximately four weeks) is needed thus bypassing Kaizen for full DMAIC business process improvement being applied.'

There are two phase groups in DMAIC workflow applied:

1. characterization (Define, Measure, Analyze) of the As-Is (existing) process before determining areas of improvement
2. optimization (Improve and Control (if needed)) of the As-Is to determine the To-Be improvement opportunities.

There are many tools that can be added to your tool belt. Basics include, Excel, Word, Powerpoint, paper and pen for interviews and observation, OneNote for historical tracking of meeting minutes, Visio for SIPOC and Process Mapping, and, if needed, SAS JMP or Minitab for data analysis, as well as numerous tools specifically referenced in each phase.