Lean and where to begin...

Hi falks,

Many times as soon as I begin my intro and talk about lean the crowds begin to roar and argue me that its not going to work because many reasons.

As we all lean leaders, enthusiasts and lean thinkers know and have had experienced it can work everywhere and any time, so, the answer is routines and daily management or control done by all involved in the value creating processes.

The question remains how to drive the leaders to do that and get them on-board and engaged?

Well, at first step we must learn, train, explain, simulate and bring convincing examples.

Then we must create a basic routine which will create experience and meeting place for all personel.

This meeting points will be used to reflect progress, difficulties and obstacles, as well as recognition point for team and personal achievements and effort.

We could use some kind of control boards, or any kind of visual displays which will give good reflection of the on-going process or current state and future improvements and their effect.

There is'nt one way to do it but the basics remain the same the visual display must include:

1. Current state reflection - KPI (Key Performance Indicators) including trends are very recommended which will reflect the performance Vs. Takt time.

2. Problem solving solutions for issues or problems occured and owners

3. Improvements, owners and their effect on a certain issue

Then when you will adopt those three principals its up to you How? Where? and When? to do it...As long as its traceble, visualazies any deviations from the desirable process or cutomer requirements.