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.
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Mark Graban
Mark Graban is an internationally-recognized consultant, author, and professional speaker who has worked in healthcare, manufacturing, and startups. He is author of the Shingo Award-winning books Lean Hospitals and Healthcare Kaizen, as well as The Executive Guide to Healthcare Kaizen. His most recent book is the anthology Practicing Lean that benefits the Louise H. Batz Patient Safety Foundation, where Mark is a board member. Mark is also a Senior Advisor to the technology company KaiNexus. His latest book has been released as an "in-progress" book, titled Measures of Success.