Lean Kaizen Working Plan

«  Kaizen Strategy is the single most important concept in Japanese management i.e. the key to Japanese Competitive success.

Kaizen means « On Going » Improvement involving everyone - Top Management, Managers and Workers »

Musaaki Imai  “Kaizen: The Key to Japan's Competitive Success”

In 1986, Imai established the Kaizen Institute to help US companies introduce kaizen concepts, systems and tools.

There are 2 approaches to problem solving :

• The first involves innovation ; applying high cost solutions such as state of the art methodology, Investments…
• The second uses common sense approach, highly efficient systems, tools and techniques that do not cost money. 

This approach is called KAIZEN. 

What is a Kaizen event ?

• A rapid, learn/do, rigorous and disciplined workshop aimed at creating fast, practical solutions for challenges
• Involves the people who do the work / own the process through a multi-functional approach, highly focused, action oriented, 3 to 4 days event.
• Requires a commitment to action, intensive support from Senior Management, a multi functional team which is empowered to make decisions and immediate change
• Requires a detailed planning
• Results in dramatic reduction in quality, lead times and costs
• Energy and momentum to remove waste and make improvements

We can bring improvements to the business by :

• Investments
• Borrowing / Developing Technology
• Engaging consultants

But making improvements with own ideas by all employees on a continuous basis, creates an asset which cannot be purchased.

It is an unique lasting culture of an organisation, retained within.