Many attempts at Lean implementation fail due to their lack of alignment with a company’s long-term vision and goals. Companies now perceive Lean deployment as a cost-saving exercise and expect results in less than a fortnight! However, it’s important to understand that while results do come by, the main area of focus should be their sustenance. Consequently, if the focus is lost, Lean is bound to go for a toss! Unsurprisingly, leadership plays a crucial role in instilling this focus, and therefore they must strive to align Lean implementation with their company’s long-term vision, mission, and goals. Here’s an example:
Figure: Linking Lean with a company’s long-term vision
Remember that Lean is NOT:
- A training and certification program
- Skill development program
- A technique to reduce manpower
- A money-saving machine! It’s all about people and not just the money.