Transitioning from Teaching Lean Tools To Teaching Lean Transformation

Abstract

The application of Lean principles to create value, improve efficiency and reduce costs is well documented. But, the number of Lean transformations that have actually achieved and maintained improved performance is not as great as the investment would suggest. After nearly four decades of implementing Lean in North America the challenge of teaching Lean principles that result in transforming enterprises still eludes many. Perhaps this is due to the fact that most of the Lean implementations to date have been focused at the operational level of the organization when it should be focused at the enterprise level. Many of the same factors cited in organization's inability to reach full potential apply to Lean Transformations as well. Adults need to know why they are learning something and are motivated to learn by both extrinsic and intrinsic motivators. Both are directed at adults placing a value on what they learn. This is at odds with traditional Lean training where the emphasis is on how to use Lean tools. The disconnect between the learning motivations for adults and the manner in which Lean training has traditionally been executed is a central principle the authors are attempting to explore and address with this article.

Keywords:

• lean transformation
• lean principles
• lean training
• lean in education