Welcome to my blog!
I decided to start this blog to provide small to medium sized company leadership a common sense understanding of Lean strategies. Detailed instructions related to each tactic is readily available, so I will focus more on application. You don’t need to know the underlying technology and algorithms to use cruise control in your car… I’ll do my best to keep this in mind while writing this blog!
I started my working life as a craftsman. I did tile work with my dad, became a boiler technician in the Navy, and later, an oil-fired heating technician on Long Island, NY. I then decided to try manufacturing and have never looked back. If you want to know more about my roots, the “About Me” page has added information.
Before I get into any Lean topics with you, I’d like you to know that I am not a writer or professional blogger. This is my very first attempt at this, so be kind… My initial training in TPS (Toyota Production System) took place 35+ years ago. I began facilitating events back then and never stopped. Although I have never met him, as a CEO, I’m a big fan of Art Byrne. Art continued to do events throughout his career. Lean is best led from the top through hands-on leadership. For me personally, it is fun and deeply rewarding!
I want to stay focused on an applied level. I liken it to cruise control in your car. Let’s talk about where you use it and what it’s doing. I plan to avoid discussing the underlying physics and software involved. There is a lot of information you can readily access to get into the details when you want to. There are also some great consultants, who can help get you started on your journey. Once you get past all the horn blowing and terminology, Lean is actually rooted in common sense.
Yes, I know… Common sense isn’t always so common!
I’ve spent most of my career in small to medium manufacturing divisions or privately held companies. Unfortunately, most have had little or no exposure to 8020 or Lean. If you are in this majority, I hope to help you figure out what to consider using where. I’m a bit of a shoprat, so you’ll have to get used to my analogies. If you’re not familiar with the term, check it out in the urban dictionary… Lean is a very large, rolling tool box packed with all sorts of implements.
Much like your own toolbox at home, you may have several tools that you can use to turn a nut. Depending on the situation, you may be better off with an open-end wrench instead of a socket. The wrong choice can limit your success, damage the nut, and/or leave you with some busted knuckles. The same applies to Lean tools!
I plan to periodically blog my way through this toolbox. My goal is to help folks just starting on this journey to better understand what you may want to use where and what to expect. I’ll do my best to stick to cruise control! If you are well on your way and need more advanced material, you should join some of the related groups on LinkedIn. They are packed with practicing experts, who are happy to assist with the science. You may also want to consider joining Mr. Womack’s LEI https://www.lean.org/ (Lean Enterprise Institute).
After 25+ years deploying TPS, I am surprised by the number of small to medium sized companies who have never used 8020 or Lean tactics. Unfortunately, I have also heard about some horror stories related to poor use of these tactics.
Stay tuned for future postings! They will be related to specific topics going forward.
Thanks for your time & attention!
Mike