Once upon a time, lean principles and tools were "reserved" for manufacturers. But that isn’t the case any more! Just ask the service industry where competition is fierce, and Lean has become a household word!
So manufacturers and the service industry now share a common technique: lean tools and principles. Both groups have signed on to teach their team members waste-eliminating tools, and to then apply those newly learned skills on the production floor, or the office, or the emergency room, pharmacy or warehouse! Their goal: to streamline their processes and procedures!
One basic tool used by many of the companies seeking Lean-Enterprise status is team-based problem solving. This tools draws on the experience and brainpower of everyone in the organization as they work to eliminate waste in a targeted area. A top-to-bottom effort that requires lean understanding and buy-in throughout the organization, and results in the launch of a new Lean culture!
And talk about non-manufacturers adopting lean practices, here’s a couple of examples that are truly extraordinary! Recently an Excellence in Manufacturing award, the Shingo Prize, was presented to a dentist (Dr. Sami Bahri) and a sheriff (John Rutherford – Jacksonville, Florida) – both of whom practice lean! Read the full article
If you’re interested in learning more about Lean, give us a call at 800-877-5182. We’re armed with lots of experience, knowledge of all the lean tools, curriculum, lean simulations (so your team can practice the tools), and we can even facilitate your implementation events. We’re looking forward to your call!