In Times Of Adversity, Don’t Abandon Basics
IndustryWeek : Continuous Improvement
This is a new recurring column from Industry Week. The author makes the pitch that companies shouldn't “forget about” continuous improvement in the face of today's other manufacturing issues (competition from China, Chinese currency issues, etc.).
It's one thing to “remember” continuous improvement, but it's also important, I think, to create a culture and environment where people feel inspired and free to make improvements. This requires leadership, elimination of fear, and a genuine respect for people throughout the organization. Remembering Toyota's or Ohno's tools won't get you anywhere if you don't have the management structure to truly support such activities.
