Lean Roundup #126 – November 2019

A selection of highlighted blog posts from Lean bloggers from the month of November 2019.  You can also view the previous monthly Lean Roundups here.

KAIZEN – Small Changes vs. Monster Projects – Al Norval explains why small changes add up to big improvements.

10 Behaviors to Practice Respect for People – Jon Miller shares 10 foundational behaviors that promote mutual respect from Virginia Mason.

You’ll NEVER “Find” Time for Continuous Improvement – Jeff Hajek answers the common question making time for continuous improvement.

The Psychology of Lean Methods – Maja Majewski says Ultimately, what differentiates Lean from other business methodologies is its emphasis on people and process over profit.

The Manga Style In The Japanese Literature On Manufacturing – Michel Baudin looks at the unique characteristic of the Japanese literature on manufacturing is its use of comic strips — or manga — to communicate with readers.

Please, Not Another Argument for MBWA – Dan Markovitz explains why we need to do away with unstructured visits to the shop floor if you want to really know what is going on.

Creating a Lean Culture – Bob Emiliani talks about leaders no wanting to do the hard work of creating a Lean culture.

Are Younger Employees the Only Ones Who Want Fair, Real-Time Feedback? – Mark Graban shows why more frequent feedback teaches us how to react less and lead more effectively, so we can improve more.

You’re Not the Hero – Ron Pereira explains that for true and lasting continuous improvement success we must rise above the need for hero status and realize our main purpose is to guide, mentor, and serve.

How to Measure the M in SQDCM – Jon Miller says a healthy business needs a work environment that is pleasant, motivating, and hopeful.

Leading Lean from the Middle of the Organization – Steve Kane discusses creating demand for continuous improvement.

The Wisdom of Humility – Kevin Meyer says recognizing and accepting that we don’t know everything and exposing our vulnerability to mistakes to others is critical for effective leadership.

Overcoming a Fear Of Failure Culture – Andrew Quibell shares 10 steps to avoid temporary solutions, band-aids, and get to root cause.

Failure is a Requirement for Innovation – Al Norval says it’s only a thin line that separates success from failure.

Why Lean is a Time-based Strategy – Orry Fiume explains why lean uses time to gain a competitive advantage.

Ask Art: Why is Takt Time So Important in a Lean Turnaround? – Art Byrne says the lean fundamental of “work to takt time” is the driving force that ties everything together.