The 4 rules of lean thinking

In the article :Decoding the DNA of the Toyota Production System, Steven Spear captures 4 rules that summarize the operating principles of the Toyota Production System. These rules are very powerful at the moment you are faced with challenges trying to improve a process. When you face these type of problems, STOP and reflect on the 4 rules, you will be able to find a solution to your problem.

Rule 1

All work should be highly specified as to CONTENT, SEQUENCE, TIMING and OUTCOME.
can you clearly explain this for elements on your job? if the answer is not, then you have an opportunity for improvement.

Rule 2

Every customer supplier connection must be DIRECT and there must be an unambiguous YES-OR-NO way to send the requests and receive responses
Again the same question applies, can you clearly describe these two elements in your customer-supplier connections? if not, then you have an opportunity for improvement

Rule 3

The pathway for every product and service must be simple and direct

Rule 4

An improvement must be made in accordance with the scientific method, with guidance, and as close as possible to the actual work.