One of the most popular models at either workplace or for entrepreneurs is known as Kaizen model. From the leaders to assembly line workers all play a vital role in this model. Read more about Masaaki Imai who introduced the term KAIZEN™ to the world.
“Kaizen” literally translates to “change for the better” or “continuous improvement.” This term of thought emphasizes gradual change in doing something. It suggests minor adjustments can lead to big success. If you are a student, why don’t you try it for your better academic improvement?
Table of Contents
The Kaizen Model’s Core Ideas
Continuous Improvement
The idea of improvement is an ongoing process lies at the heart of Kaizen. This starts consistently implementing minor adjustments and enhancements. Understanding “Mindset” is much better to get into this model.
People Involvement
All members are welcome to offer suggestions for enhancements regardless to their duty and position. This encourages a feeling of responsibility and ownership towards the vision of the group.
Focus on Processes
Kaizen places an emphasis on streamlining processes. It aims to take off the waste and inefficiencies (How to get rid of distraction?). Kaizen does not focus on placing the blame for issues on specific people. Nevertheless, it brings on positivism of change.
Standardization
After an improvement is produced, it is formatted and standardized for reproducing circle of flows. It will promote autonomy in what everyone works on inclusively. Get to know some good habits if you are a student!
Quality Control
A key component of Kaizen is guaranteeing excellent quality at every level of production or service delivery. Be sure that each part of Kaizen focuses must align with the quality in need or its own purpose.
Top Techniques for Applying Kaizen
Promote Open Communication
To make Kaizen more effective, everyone must create a comfortable environment. Each member should feel at ease offering their opinions and suggestions. It is very compulsory to fully join in the discussion.
Continuous Training
All members should have an ongoing instruction in Kaizen’s concepts and techniques. This helps them as a collective group to improve. It also supports each member’s own personal development.
Least, Incremental Changes
To have a long-term progressive improvement, members shall focus on making manageable, minor changes over big, disruptive ones. It does not reach goals in short time. It will not distract and lose tract of keeping doing.
Applying Tools and Techniques
To put techniques into practice effectively, all members must continuously redo Value Stream Mapping (VSM). They should also repeat the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle and implement 5S (Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain).
Measure and Review
To make sure the procedures are working, efficiencies of improvements on a regular basis must be measured. A supervisor or who is in the superior authority can be even more practical to this stage.
Leadership Support
As certain that the leadership is totally on board with the Kaizen concept and encourages its application. Leaders must come up with intentions of motivational and encouraging characteristics.
To conclude, Kaizen is for those who wants improvement for better. It consists of VSM, PDCA and 5S. These approaches involve making small changes. These changes lead to better progress in the best CEO’s practices.
Rotana K., English 