leadership Archives |

Pull Production Makes Only What the Customer Demands

By Shmula, Last Updated August 13, 2018

In Lean production, it is commonly understood to use pull production instead of push production, which is implemented with a Kanban system. But what makes the pull production system the way to go? Why not use a push production system? For most, the answers are about as clear as muddy water. A pull production system […]

[VIDEO] Lean Agile Sprints for Marketing

By Shmula, Last Updated August 6, 2018

In taking a cue from manufacturing, marketing departments are embracing the principles of lean agile practices. Research shows that over the past five years, 77% of marketing departments have embraced lean agile principles, and 67% of those have shown increases in both revenue and profits. Needless to say, lean agile principles are making an impact […]

TPS and the Two Pillars of Lean

By Shmula, Last Updated July 30, 2018

When first learning about TPS and lean, most become focused on the tools. They tend to be flashy and lend to endless discussion about technique and application. But as you gain experience and understanding of lean and TPS, an epiphany occurs. The true essence and spirit of the applications are about continuous improvement and respect […]

[VIDEO] The True Focus of Lean and TPS

By Shmula, Last Updated July 30, 2018

The true concept of lean and TPS has two main pillars. These two pillars are respect for people and continuous improvement. Many organizations who try and embrace lean thinking and TPS are often distracted by the tools, instead of focusing on the true strength of lean thinking. Accepting the concepts of the two pillars will […]

[VIDEO] Collaborative Leadership is a Mindset

By Shmula, Last Updated July 23, 2018

Leading in turbulent times requires a deliberate shift from command-and-control towards a collaborative style of leadership. This may be easier for some than others. It requires a shift in mindset! The idea of collaborative leadership requires individuals at all levels take initiative and act in ways that supports the achievement of the vision, purpose and objectives of […]

Collaborative Leadership Is a Different Skillset

By Shmula, Last Updated July 23, 2018

The concept of collaborative leadership seems foreign to some professionals new to a leadership role. Most newly anointed leaders anticipate an environment where they are streaming orders down the line and their staff are jumping into action. Things are getting done as long as they seem to be in control, barking orders and expecting complete […]

[VIDEO] RCA Uncovers the Hidden Truth

By Shmula, Last Updated July 16, 2018

“If you don’t ask the right questions, you don’t get the right answers. A question asked in the right way often points to its own answer. Asking questions is the ABC of diagnosis. Only the inquiring mind solves problems.” – Edward Hodnett (1871-1962 British Poet) RCA is a valuable tool used to uncover the facts […]

5 Important Trends in Business Process Management

By Shmula Contributor, Last Updated June 15, 2018

Business process management is constantly evolving, and it’s important to stay in touch with the current trends in the field, no matter how critical your leadership position might be to your organization. Generally speaking, every leader is a critical figure in the company they work for, and everyone should be on the same page when […]

[TED Talk] The Next Manufacturing Revolution

By Shmula, Last Updated May 7, 2018

The US has been facing a loss of its manufacturing edge over the past few decades to other global manufacturers. The fact is that automation and innovation will be the key to success in manufacturing in the future. Finding a way to match that innovation with a skilled workforce will be the real challenge. Watch this […]

The Lost Pillar of Jidoka

By Shmula, Last Updated April 9, 2018

The popularity of TPS and Lean manufacturing is fully entrenched in manufacturing on a global scale. The success of these concepts are indisputable. Like any other process, elements can be left out or overlooked. Jidoka is a crucial concept in both TPS and Lean, but is also a lost pillar within these practices. The importance […]