20 years ago I found my passion in woodworking. After just a few projects I had family and friends urging me to start commissioning pieces or begin showing my work in local craft fairs. I was afraid the joy I found in creating would be lost once my hobby became a job.
Ironic now, as my job has filtered into my personal Zen space. What was learned professionally I now use personally. My day job is in the automotive industry. Consulting in dealerships I teach the staff how to manage their business better. One of my objectives is to teach how to manage in a lean environment. Most notable of lean managed environments is Toyota.
Most have heard of Toyota. That little Japanese car company that began importing gas sipping econo-boxes into the U.S. in the early 60’s. This little company is not so little anymore. When you consider Toyota was nearly bankrupt in the early 50’s and at the time the Big 3 (GM, Ford, Chrysler) had 95% of the U.S. auto market, it’s almost unbelievable how this company as prospered. How this little company that grew to automotive dominance in the past 50 years holds the story of Lean and the methods and philosophy that have migrated into my workshop.
As a result I feel compelled to merge my two lives and share what I have learned professionally, so that you may also benefit by these common sense and valuable techniques and philosophies.
In following weeks I will write on the details of these techniques and philosophies including:
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A process used to keep your workspace clean, organized and productive
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A template to a roadmap for project development
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How an understanding of how being methodical about your work will lead to improved quality and productivity
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A perspective, or way of life recognizing that there are always opportunities for improvement
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Toyota’s secret weapon which results in providing more value at a lower cost.
