 The
Newsletter of Lean Manufacturing & Factory Science
January
29, 2003
www.strategosinc.com
Quick
& Easy Kaizen
My
previous letter on the Japanese word "Kaizen" focused on the
intense, localized "Kaizen Blitz"
which has become popular here in the U.S.
Another
meaning for "Kaizen" is translated by Norman Bodek as
"Quick & Easy Kaizen". Here we encourage
everyone in the firm to look for and implement small improvements in
their own areas. This includes such simple things as rearranging tools
for easier access or modifying a screwdriver for use in a special
assembly.
Such
"Mini Kaizen" eventually add up to large improvements after
hundreds or thousands have been implemented. Toyota
considers this an important piece of the Toyota Production System.
Mini
Kaizen offers some important advantages: - The small scope allows
immediate implementation without approvals, bureaucracy and cost. - It
offers intrinsic psychological rewards that motivate employees and
heighten morale. - It is a simple and
inexpensive program to launch and the risks are low.
There
are, however, some secrets to making it work. Norman Bodek has revealed
them in his new book "The Idea Generator". You
can find a summary of this powerful technique on our site at:
www.strategosinc.com/kaizen_quick_easy.htm
All
The Best-
Quarterman
Lee
Please
feel free to forward this Lean Briefing to colleagues or use it
in your publication. We only ask that you do so in its entirety. |
