Define the target area or process you want to inspect
Collect the relevant data, samples, or observations
Look for excess, waste, inconsistency, or low-quality output
Compare actual results against expected standards
Check for vague, sloppy, or poorly controlled steps
Identify repeated errors, rework, or avoidable delays
Review feedback from users, customers, or team members
Measure variability, inefficiency, and unnecessary complexity
Trace problems back to their source
Prioritize the most obvious and frequent issues first