The Program
Nobody does Lean like the Japanese.
Partly, this is the Toyota influence.
Partly, Japanese industry has
done it longer. And, partly,
Japanese culture has a bias for
simplicity, order and harmony that meshes well with
lean. Enna is offering an opportunity to experience and study
Lean in its purest and original form with a
benchmarking study mission to
Japan.
The mission includes five days
at Toyota,
Daihatsu,
Asahi glass,
Ricoh and other firms. It
includes discussion with key managers. There will be a full day in Tokyo to sightsee
and adjust to the time. Plus, there is a visit to Japan's
ancient capital, Kyoto.
Travel in Japan is by air,
Bullet Train and
charter coach.
More than A Junket
The mission includes briefings and discussion of the day's experience led by Norman Bodek, Collin McLoughlin and Michel Metre. You will have
opportunities to talk with lean experts, Japanese managers and
your peers from other firms.
Group size is limited to twenty people-- small enough
for individual participation;
large enough to
cross-fertilize thinking. This does mean that
early enrollment is
necessary.
More Information
Cost: $6750.00.
More information-->
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The Value of a Study Mission
William James (the "father" of American psychology) said
"Some things can only be known through
direct experience." A study mission provides that
experience.
On a well-planned mission, participants are
immersed in the subject and distractions are 6300
miles away. This gives a focus and concentration not available
in other learning situations.
Some years ago I went on such a mission--it
was a life-changing experience. At the
time (1984) some Westerners were aware that Japanese
manufacturers operated differently. But, there was not even
a name for their practices; "Toyota Production System" and "Lean
Manufacturing" were names that came much later.
A high point on my trip was
Toyota's Kamigo Engine Plant. Having worked for Ford Motor
Company, in a similar plant, I was interested in the contrasts.
Click here for more about the
similarities and differences between Kamigo and typical American
automotive plants at the time.
QL On Bullet Train (1984) |
I appreciate this adventure more as the years go
by, often recalling incidents that
illuminate current issues. Photos, examples and recollections
sometimes find
their way into
Strategos
training programs.
Quarterman Lee |
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