Why Most Gemba Walks Fail
- Leadership
- May 13, 2026

Each March, we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with shamrocks, parades, and a healthy dose of Irish cheer. But beyond the cultural festivities, the life of St. Patrick offers a surprising number of insights into Lean thinking and leadership. His story—rooted in resilience, purpose, and disciplined action—mirrors many principles that guide successful Lean transformations today.
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In his 2025 letter to shareholders, the CEO of GE Aerospace tells a story about a tape dispenser. Yes — a tape dispenser. It wasn’t a billion-dollar contract or a breakthrough engine design. It was a simple improvement spotted on the shop floor. A frontline team member saw waste. Leadership empowered action. The fix
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As I finish my 18th year coaching players in my favorite sport—ice hockey—I’m reminded how much the rink has taught me about leadership, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Coaching hockey isn’t just about teaching skills; it’s about developing people, building trust, and creating an environment where everyone can perform their best. The lessons I’ve learned behind
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Each year on President’s Day, we honor the men who have led our nation through times of challenge and change. Many of the qualities that made them successful leaders—vision, humility, perseverance, and respect for people—also lie at the heart of Lean thinking. Great presidents, much like great Lean leaders, create environments where people can
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In today’s fast-changing business environment, Lean leaders must evolve beyond managing day-to-day operations. Operational management focuses on executing processes efficiently — meeting targets, maintaining quality, and ensuring stability. While these are critical to success, true organizational transformation requires something more — strategic leadership. This shift demands a broader view, aligning daily improvement efforts with
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Each year, we pause to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—a man who led with conviction, courage, and compassion. While best known for his role in the civil rights movement, Dr. King’s approach to leadership provides timeless lessons for anyone guiding teams, organizations, or communities. His example reminds us that
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