I’ve found that organisations which have had a successful LEAN journey have leaders that have the right mindset from the start.
Leaders include senior leaders, department heads, unit heads, influencers and those with specific roles in the implementation. These are the key stakeholders. They must be well prepared before anyone else.
The groundswell (building momentum towards the start of the journey) should start early before any practical activity is undertaken.
I’ve found 2 keys to build groundswell.
1. Go See-go to the gemba at similar businesses and see for your yourself, ask questions and learn directly from those ahead of you on the journey. Use association that run Site Tours to go see. Networking is also powerful where you can bounce ideas. Also don’t manage the transformation from your desk but go see in your own environment what’s happening during the implementation.
2. Communication-critically important before your start the implementation and all through the journey. Ensure Leaders communicate well. Share your vision, your strategy, your plan and your progress with everyone regularly. When you achieve great change, share this with others. Acknowledge where & with whom it came from. Celebrate the wins, no matter how small.
I’m sure this will help you on your journey towards a successful LEAN transformation.