My Lean Transformation Blog

Simplicity in our Problem Solving Efforts

Vivek Naik — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 17:54:32 +0000

“Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.” - Confucius Problem solving is simple irrespective of what the problem is or what methodology you are using. But we insist on making it complicated. Sometimes tools are given … Continue reading →

Ways to Make Lean Work for you

Vivek Naik — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 00:22:26 +0000

Lessons from the Lean Transformation of a Small Manufacturing Company Lean is often considered as a strategy for large corporations, but in reality Lean is better suited for small businesses and even non-manufacturing operations. Here are 3 ways to make Lean … Continue reading →

Become a Good Manager: Starting with an Empty Glass

Vivek Naik — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 01:41:38 +0000

Only an empty Glass can be filled with something new. If your glass already full there is no place to learn new things. Thus you need to be able to free yourself from the pre-conceptions and ideas that clutter your … Continue reading →

Practicing Behavior Patterns are More Important than Tools

Vivek Naik — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 02:38:35 +0000

Many companies fail to reach the success similar to that of Toyota as they randomly apply tools and techniques of lean. The right way as proposed in “Toyota Kata” is practicing the behavior patterns in our daily routine. This thought … Continue reading →

Managing by Means and Not by Results

Vivek Naik — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 22:05:37 +0000

Toyota has been successful at what they do for several years. Many have tried to imitate them only to be limited by their understanding of the “know why”. One of the main philosophical difference between Toyota and many others trying … Continue reading →

The Need for Training in Small Companies

Vivek Naik — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 01:50:22 +0000

There is no doubt for an organization to learn and grow you need to develop your people. But the challenge especially for small companies is they neither have the time or money to deliver it. I think it is probably … Continue reading →

Future of Lean Thinking: The Making of Lean Manager

Vivek Naik — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 02:17:53 +0000

“By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.” – Confucius The Lean Manager is the lynchpin. Without the right person and … Continue reading →

Understanding Kaizen Through Daily Life Example

Vivek Naik — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 02:46:14 +0000

“Kai” change “Zen” for good .Even if you have never heard of it; there is a possibility of you already practicing it. Let’s take an example of cooking. If you are cooking for the first time, it is very likely … Continue reading →

Story of Joe McLean: Part 5 – Joe finds his Allies

Vivek Naik — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 10:00:17 +0000

Story of Joe McLean: Part 4 – Learning from Others Who are on the Same Journey

Vivek Naik — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 10:00:30 +0000