For the last 30 years, our eyes have told us this truth: There is a strong consensus of opinion among CEOs that if any of Lean is to be adopted, it is solely its tools. CEOs have expressed little interest in adopting Lean as a comprehensive system of management to replace Classical Management. This … [Read more...] about Lean is an Intangible Asset
Truth Has Consequences
A fundamental feature of Toyota’s management system (and its derivative, Lean management) is the search for the truth. Why? In order to make real improvement – versus merely the appearance of improvement – one must know what is actually happening. And herein lies a problem: People often do not want … [Read more...] about Truth Has Consequences
Final Exams, Final Mistake
A recent op-ed article in my university's student-run newspaper, written by a soon-to-be graduating senior, questioned the wisdom of cumulative final exams (click here to read the article). It's great to see a student putting their critical thinking skills to use. Professors should do the same. The … [Read more...] about Final Exams, Final Mistake
Methodological Errors in Lean for Higher Ed
As both a participant and witness to the practice of Lean management in higher education, I would like to point out methodological errors in relation to how Lean is practiced in industry. Those in industry who practice Lean management correctly provide us with a standard by which we can compare the … [Read more...] about Methodological Errors in Lean for Higher Ed
Bosses Flunk Critical Thinking
I have commented previously (here, here, and here) about how bosses want new hires to possess good critical thinking skills. But, due to a lack of critical thinking, bosses mistakenly ask for critical thinking when what they really want is people who can solve problems.It looks like bosses did not … [Read more...] about Bosses Flunk Critical Thinking
Thoughts on Lean Higher Ed Conference
At the 2nd International Lean Six Sigma Conference for Higher Education (click to read Day 1 and Day 2 highlights), three speakers presented the view that Lean in higher education is failing or that higher education is distinct from other application domains and adjustments have not been made by … [Read more...] about Thoughts on Lean Higher Ed Conference
What About Six Sigma?
Do you wonder why I focus on Lean and not Lean Six Sigma in teaching? Let me explain the reason for this first from a management perspective and then from a teaching perspective. I do not join Lean with six sigma as a management concept or practice for the following reasons:Lean is a management … [Read more...] about What About Six Sigma?