Getting people engaged and “on the same page” requires everyone to understand the language used to convey the message. Even the method of disseminating information can create confusion. Oral presentations can convey a completely different message than one delivered in writing.
The tone used in an oral presentation cannot be delivered in writing using the same words. Voice inflections, body language, and atmosphere all add to the message. How many times have you heard the expression, “When s/he spoke those words, you could almost hear a pin drop”. It is obviously not just the spoken words but how they are delivered that create an aura of suspense or awe.
How does this apply to lean? The answer is quite simple. Don’t assume that people understand – just because you told them either verbally or in writing. Lean is “hands-on” management. Go to the process and see what is actually happening (or not happening).
If a picture is worth a thousand words, how many words would it take to describe the experience of seeing the real process first hand? “Don’t just tell me – show me” are words that should be uttered most often by leadership, managers, or any lean practitioner.
The first step to implementing lean is going out to SEE what opportunities exist. Unlike computer programs that have explicit meanings, people are intelligent and capable of interpreting the real message behind the words. Computers do not have an intuitive sense.
The Language of Lean can be summed up in two words – QUICK ACTION. Successful lean organizations understand that ACTION is truly LOUDER than WORDS. See it, Solve it, Share it executed in real-time.
Until Next Time – Stay LEAN!
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