12 Lean Memes

12 Lean Memeswe need to spread to be successful in our Lean Implementation efforts

Created by Tom Curtis 2011Blog: www.onimproving.blogspot.comPresentations: on www.slideshare.net/onimproving Email: ideamerchants@gmail.comTwitter: @onimproving

Meme:an idea, behavior, style, or usage that spreads from person to person within a culture-Merriam-Webster Dictionary www.m-w.com

The Memes

Respect for PeopleWithout respect for people, Lean progress will not

be sustainable. People thinking and improving are a key basis for real longterm improvement.

Surface ProblemsIf we do not know what and where the problems are we cannot correct them.

Seek Flow and RhythmFlow is a state that shows issues quickly and

minimizes waste. Rhythm simplifies our planning, operating, and supporting activities. They must be a constant goal for all involved.

Go and SeeTo understand issues we need to go to where the action takes place and see things for ourselves. Our ability to understand and help correct will depend on how regularly we are there

and the relationships we build and maintain.

Plan Do Check ActThis is our cycle to better.

We must practice this everyday in all we do.

Manage VisuallyIf everybody can see and understand it, it becomes simpler

and less effort to manage. This takes upfront work and iteration, but pays back in tangible and intangible ways.

Eliminate WasteWaste is the enemy of value. It must be recognized,

neutralized, and destroyed. As this is done, we must ensure that we do not create additional waste,

strain, or unevenness in our activities.

Practice KaizenKaizen is not just an activity, but an attitude and

orientation. We all, every employee, must approach our activities and assignments with an eye for improvement.

Quality in each StepQuality is not a department or support function. Each employee ensures that they only pass along

quality parts to the following activity. This facilitates correction of error in a timely manner at the source.

Establish Level DemandLevel Demand is an often overlooked, yet crucial

part of Lean. It facilitates stability, rhythm and flow.

Customer Defines ValueIf it is not something the customer will pay for it is not value creating. Non-value added activities must be minimized to only those truly required.

Desire Just in TimeJust in Time is the pinnacle of Lean. It should be the goal that all our improvement efforts work towards.