A simple, pragmatic problem solving methodology is the Plan, Do, Check, Act (PDCA) approach. It begins with a Planning phase in which the problem is clearly identified and understood. Potential solutions are then generated and tested on a small scale in the “Do” phase, and the outcome of this testing is evaluated during the Check
READ MOREUnfortunately, there are many examples of Lean mistakenly implemented. A few years ago Mark Graban, blogger at Lean Blog, coined the term “L.A.M.E.” — Lean As Misguidedly Executed. L.A.M.E. includes those things that people call “Lean” but really aren’t a good representation of true Lean mindsets and practices. In order to fully understand Lean and
READ MOREOn Fridays I will post a Lean related Quote. Throughout our lifetimes many people touch our lives and leave us with words of wisdom. These can both be a source of new learning and also a point to pause and reflect upon lessons we have learned. Within Lean active learning is an important aspect on
READ MOREToday, I am pleased to Meet-up with Kevin Meyer of LeanCEO.com and Evolving Excellence. I have been following Kevin since my early years as he was one of the first online Lean resources. Kevin is extremely talented and creative as seen from his successful various business endeavors. You probably don’t even realize the influence Kevin
READ MORELean Manufacturing has been taught from practitioner to practitioner and company to company for decades. This learning and reciprocal sharing of best practices is what helps us all improve. A network of like-minded professionals creates an opportunity for those that practice Lean, Six Sigma and other improvement philosophies to share their knowledge; and for those
READ MOREIn recent years, more companies have adopted Lean as a continuous improvement method to improve profitability, enhance customer satisfaction and maintain a competitive edge in the marketplace. Based on a customer-focused view, Lean can provide a strong foundation for any organization that wants to incorporate continuous improvement into its operating philosophy. Starting the Lean journey
READ MOREOn Fridays I will post a Lean related Quote. Throughout our lifetimes many people touch our lives and leave us with words of wisdom. These can both be a source of new learning and also a point to pause and reflect upon lessons we have learned. Within Lean active learning is an important aspect on
READ MOREToday’s guest post is from Aimee Siegler, a fellow ASQ Influential Voices Blogger. Aimee is the global compliance manager at Benchmark Electronics. Her interests include supply chain management and communication, hazardous substance and risk management, and sustainability. She blogs at Thoughts on Quality in a Chaotic World. Today she shares some 5S advice from home
READ MOREThe United States Independence Day (also known as the Fourth of July because that’s the day it is celebrated) is a holiday that celebrates the separation of the United States from Great Britain, and the United States’ declaration of independence. Traditionally, many people celebrate this day with family and friend gatherings, barbecues, parties, games, food,
READ MORE