Is Japanese culture and their Lean Management always lean?
Last updated: September 07, 2024 Read in fullscreen view
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The author, a lean coach and enthusiast, moved to Tokyo to learn about Japanese business culture, leadership, and the application of kaizen (continuous improvement). After 18 months, the author reflects on the experience and how it has shaped their understanding of lean. The main theme is that Japanese culture does not equal Toyota culture, and the principles of kaizen are not a typically Japanese business leadership mindset. The author explains that while Toyota culture does not necessarily equate to Japanese culture, there are several Japanese traits that support kaizen and a Toyota-inspired culture, and others that make them harder to embrace.
Cultural traits supporting lean include the concept of kata in every-day life, which guides daily living and makes following "standard work" seem more natural for Japanese people. The author has made cultural mistakes in following basic "every-day kata" and has observed the Japanese commitment to perfection through continuous improvement (kaizen) and pride in one's work.
In conclusion, the author believes that lean culture and Japanese culture are not synonymous, and that there are both supportive and inhibiting cultural traits that can support the development of a Toyota-inspired transformation.
Japanese culture values politeness, respect, and patience. The Japanese people are known for their kindness and respect, even on the internet. The structure of the Japanese language varies in respect and politeness, making learning to speak it more challenging. Japanese people are more patient in listening, with long pauses and silence being natural in conversation. This patience is a virtue and a focus on long-term results, as seen in the deep apprenticeship practice in Japan. Tokyo is known for its cleanliness and order, with people volunteering to clean parks and school-aged children physically cleaning classrooms. However, many hospitals and manufacturing organizations face challenges in managing supplies and keeping areas neat and clutter-free. To address these challenges, organizations have developed a "5S school" to teach how to sustain their gains. Overall, Japanese culture values cleanliness, order, and a focus on long-term results.
Continue reading at Japanese culture and lean culture: not always the same (By Katie Anderson)
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