A lot of people say they are Lean experts. But is there such a thing as a Lean expert? Let's assume there is. The next question is, what does "Lean expert" mean? Is a Lean expert someone who has comprehensive knowledge and skills in some Lean methods and tools? Or, is a Lean expert someone who is … [Read more...] about Are You a Lean Expert?
Lean Leaders Impede the Advancement of Lean
In a recent post, "Ask Art: Where Will the Biggest Resistance to Lean Come From?," Art Byrne accurately explains the people and parts of the organization that will resist Lean transformation based on his extensive experience. Art also offers some suggestions on how to overcome the resistance, the … [Read more...] about Lean Leaders Impede the Advancement of Lean
Lean Graft Incompatibility
Here is a practical way to understand how Lean management usually fails to take hold in brownfield organizations that have for years been governed by classical management thinking and practice. Grafting is a horticultural technique whereby two plants are joined together to allow the graft to grow … [Read more...] about Lean Graft Incompatibility
Static vs. Dynamic Lean
The big benefit of TPS and Lean is the change from batch-and-queue processing to one-piece flow. This is what generates huge business impact in terms of lower cost, higher quality, shorter lead-times, higher throughput, better safety, and so on. But over the years, the focus on Lean tools, … [Read more...] about Static vs. Dynamic Lean
In Search of Lean CEOs
In business, the word "unicorn" means a startup company that has a billion-dollar valuation. Unlike the mythical beast, unicorn companies do exist but are rare. Much like unicorn companies, Lean companies are also rare, as are their CEOs. Lean companies are a different kind of company and Lean CEOs … [Read more...] about In Search of Lean CEOs
The Worst Lean Advice
Over the decades, Lean has turned into something very messy and confusing. And lots of bad advice is dispensed for organizations that are starting their so-called "Lean journey," such as shown in the image at right. Below are brief explanations why each piece of advice is bad. Don't Copy … [Read more...] about The Worst Lean Advice
Promotion of Lean Must Evolve
Who doesn't admire Art Byrne, Orry Fiume, and the other members of the Wiremold senior management team? I've known Art and Orry for many years and continue to be captivated by their accomplishments and that of the entire Wiremold workforce. The Wiremold Company's transformation remains a classic … [Read more...] about Promotion of Lean Must Evolve
How to Never Run Out of Ideas
"Every organization constantly deteriorates. And this is especially true of a business organization. It loses customers -- through death, through change in location, through the lures of competitors. It loses its personnel from the same causes. Its physical equipment is constantly wearing out and … [Read more...] about How to Never Run Out of Ideas
My Contributions to Lean
Below is a summary of my significant original contributions to the body of Lean knowledge as author or co-author. My primary focus has been Lean leadership and Lean management, as well as Lean in higher education, Lean in supply chain management, and the history of progressive management. It … [Read more...] about My Contributions to Lean