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Socially Responsible Design Meets Lean Product and Process Development: A Conversation with Cynthia E. Smith
In this episode of the WLEI podcast, explore how socially responsible design tackles real-world challenges—and why collaboration is key to…
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Hoshin Kanri as a Foundational Piece of a Lean Management System
Hoshin kanri is more than a strategic planning tool—it’s a dynamic, socio-technical process that aligns organizations at every level through…
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Developing More than a Machine: How an MIT D-Lab Project for Tanzanian Farmers Produces Crops, Entrepreneurs, and Engineers
MIT D-Lab’s multi-grain thresher revolutionized farming in Tanzania—boosting efficiency, income, and inspiring the next generation of engineers through hands-on innovation.
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Lean Summit Deep Dive into Hoshin Kanri
At Lean Summit 2025, Mark Reich shared insights from his decades of experience with hoshin kanri—from Toyota to LEI. He…
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30-Plus Years with Hoshin Kanri
Mark Reich shares his 30-year journey with hoshin kanri—from transforming Toyota’s North American operations to coaching companies on strategic excellence—in…
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Building Ownership: Insights from O.C. Tanner
How O.C. Tanner builds a culture of continuous improvement by using standardization to empower teams—rather than commonization that enforces sameness.
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Isao Yoshino Reflects on 40 Years at Toyota
In this edition of The Management Brief, Mark Reich sits down with Isao Yoshino, a 40-year veteran of Toyota and…
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Managing on Purpose Excerpt
Get a first look at Managing on Purpose, Mark Reich’s upcoming workbook on hoshin kanri. Learn how to develop strategy,…
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The Management Brief — January Summary
Lean transformation is never a straight path. From Turner Construction’s evolution to Grand Rapids Chair’s hoshin kanri journey, leaders share…
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Driving Continuous Improvement through Frontline Supervisors: A Conversation with TRQSS President Mark Dolsen
In this episode of the WLEI podcast, discover how TRQSS, a leading seat belt manufacturer, leverages lean principles and frontline…
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Reflections on DOGE and Efficiency
Can cutting bureaucracy save $2 trillion without sacrificing vital services? A closer look at DOGE’s ambitious plan reveals potential pitfalls…
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Building a Resilient Business with Hoshin Kanri and Problem Solving : A Conversation with Grand Rapids Chair CEO Geoff Miller
In the latest Management Brief, Geoff Miller, CEO of Grand Rapids Chair, shares insights on building resilience through hoshin kanri…
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