DailyKaizen

Over the last couple of weeks I have been involved in several discussions in regards to the implementation and spread strategy for our Lean transformation.  Over the last year we have been selective in picking areas to extend resources.  We are trying to avoid mistakes of the past where improvement initiatives generated a lot of excitement, but because of a lack of strategic focus ended up following well short on results.  In assessing a potential area for transformation we take into account many factors, but none are more important then the ability of the line managers. 

Leadership is by far the most important success factor, but you need to be careful to be looking for the right type of leadership.  We have found that those that were successful in being leaders in the past in the organization may not be the type of leaders we are looking for in a Lean world.  In assessing leadership there are certain behaviors that we look for that are good indicators that the leader might be ready.  Most importantly the leader must be trusted by those that are under them and be able to inspire associates.   In that spirit I chose the followoing quote:

“Good leaders make people feel that they’re at the very heart of things, not at the periphery.  Everyone feels that he or she makes a difference to the success of the organization.  When that happens people feel centered and that gives their work meaning.”  –Warren Bennis

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