An Improved Marshmallow Challenge
The Marshmallow Challenge can be used as more than a basic team-building exercise. Multiple rounds with changing rules increase the continuous improvement learnings.
Mike Thelen
Using SQDCM Boards the Right Way for Effective Gemba Walks
With the right metrics, SQDCM (safety, quality, delivery, cost, morale) boards can – and should – be used on the floor to enhance strategic development and the power of your Gemba walks.
Standard Work: What It Is and Measures of Success
There is a right way to do standard work. Ensure that your organization knows what it is, how to implement it and how to measure its success. Your company’s future may depend on it!
Hiring a Lean Mindset
I was recently asked if I was aware of any research on the advantages of hiring people with a “Lean mindset” vs. those with specific industry experience. My response was, regretfully, that I did not know of any documented research. I was then asked, would I prefer that my company hire people with a “Lean…
Beware of Tools and 'The Next Big Thing'
Isn’t it amazing how there’s “the next big thing” everyday? Headlines from blogs, sales websites, newspapers, even Twitter and LinkedIn, carry this headline continuously. How many of these “things” really are new? Years ago when I started my continuous improvement journey, I read about Deming and Juran. Quality Circles and SPC were big. Then Total…
Why Lean Manufacturing Fails
During both prosperous and difficult times, successful businesses naturally look for new ways to improve performance. However, in recent years, as the world economy suffered through one of the worst recessions in history, many companies turned in droves to Lean and other variations of continuous improvement programs to rescue their sagging businesses. But, did they…