Lean Production : Implementing a World-Class System

The concept of lean production is not new, but the challenges of dramatic change management often stymie business leaders trying to put lean operations into place. This newly-revised and greatly expanded volume aims to provide a readable, real-world roadmap for putting into place the indispensable strategy and tactics managers need to make lean work and move their organizations - whether manufacturing or service-based - toward a world-class production system. Drawing upon decades of experience in the front lines of lean production and organizational transformation, the author provides cases, anecdotes, examples, rationales and concrete tools to help business leaders stop talking about lean production and actually make progress toward achieving it. It's the perfect resource for leaders at all levels who are interested in improving their competitiveness, building more successful operations, and moving toward world-class performance in customer satisfaction, profitability, and employee satisfaction.

• Contains in-depth "insight" chapters that explore key principles of the strategy with detailed explanations, examples, anecdotes, graphics, and comments by business leaders experienced in each area.
• Addresses the use of lean production principles and tools in service organizations and small companies.
• Provides actual case histories of successful implementation in a variety of organizations.
• Includes explanatory graphics and charts, including key steps and measurements for use in implementation.
• Features an extensive glossary and additional recommended reading.

Dedication
Introduction

Chapter 1 : What is a Lean, World-Class Production System?
Chapter 2 : Getting Lean – The Route to World-Class Production
Chapter 3 : Japanese Roots – Toyota , Toyota, Toyota

Insight : Defects, Mistakes, and Inspections
Chapter 4 : Building the Foundation – Employee Involvement and the Example of Boeing’s 757 Airplane Productivity Program

Insight : The Boeing 737 Lean Story
Chapter 5 : Erecting the Roof – The Crucial Role of Leaders

Insight : What a Great Leader Looks Like – The Selby Philosophy, the Staples Conversion, and the Mulally Factor
Chapter 6 : Promoting the Process – The Power of the Promotion Office
Chapter 7 : Japan Study Missions – The Power of Learning and Doing
Chapter 8 : Champions, Consultants, Sensei – The Differences and Their Key Roles

Insight : About Inventory and Kanban
Chapter 9 : The Roadmap – Striving for Perfection Through Kaizen

Insight : Implementation in a Small Company
Chapter 10 : Beyond Manufacturing – The Office and Service Industry Wasteland

Insight : Lean Production in a Service Organization

Summary : The Opportunity is Yours is Yours to Choose
Appendix I : Ten Lessons for a Lean, World-Class Production System
Appendix II : Further Reading
Glossary
References
About the Author
Index