Building a Continuous Improvement System at a Defense Contractor
The Current State and Improvement Process Situation The client has a very important and trusted brand and product. They received significantly higher orders than they were able to produce. After hiring many new employees, their quality was deteriorating and they were significantly behind schedule, leaving their customer searching for alternatives. Scott was contracted to help […]
What is the Harada Method and why is it the key in Tennessee?
What is the Harada Method and why is it the key to the 8th waste? The Harada Method in Tennessee is a transformative approach to personal and professional development that emphasizes the importance of engaging employees at all levels to unlock their full potential. Developed by Takashi Harada, this method addresses the 8th waste in […]
What is A3 problem solving?
A3 PDCA problem solving is a structured approach integral to the Lean manufacturing philosophy, designed to facilitate effective problem-solving and continuous improvement. Named after the A3 paper size on which it is traditionally documented, the A3 process embodies a systematic methodology that fosters deep analysis of issues, promotes learning, and encourages ownership and accountability among […]
Why you need a Toyota-type culture before you start Lean
The success of Lean practices in manufacturing is often attributed to the underlying cultural framework that supports them which I call the “Toyota Culture.” This culture, which emphasizes collaboration, respect for individuals, and continuous improvement, serves as the foundation upon which effective Lean implementation is built. Understanding the essence of the Toyota Culture and its […]
Why do most Lean Implementations Fail?
Lean manufacturing has been heralded as a revolutionary approach that can transform operations, enhance productivity, and reduce waste and deservedly so. However, despite its proven benefits and widespread adoption, many Lean implementations in manufacturing plants fail to achieve their intended outcomes or are not sustained. A primary reason for these failures is the absence of […]