one80too!

182 Critical Concepts for Operating Executives Practicing Operational Excellence

My operational excellence journey began in 1991 when I participated in a joint project lead by Japanese sensei Nakao-san of Shingijutsu fame. I had no idea then what that simple experience would create. I have practiced and learned with more sensei and in different organizations until I reached Caterpillar. There I was introduced to the Lean Certification Alliance, made up of SME, AME, The Shingo Institue, and at the time, ASQ. Over my career I have gathered these 182 critical concepts that I now share with you.

To practice in the global deployment team of the Caterpillar Production System, one must be a bronze certified practitioner. Once I earned my bronze certification, I went on to earn both silver and gold level certification, and eventually joined the board, representing, the society of manufacturing engineers. In 2022 I became chair of the board.

one80too

This blog is my way of sharing what I have been fortunate to have learned over the years. From the essential body of work, the foundation of the certifications, I will provide a simple commentary to share with you. I am not suggesting that you must think like I do. Recently, a client of nearly twelve years told me that he works with me because I adapt the lean concepts to his culture, his processes, and his people, not the other way around.

That is the spirit of this blog.  Here is an idea I have considered and practiced myself. This is the way I think about it. How do you see it? How might you apply this in your own work? You may be well aware of the idea already, and have your own opinion about it, too. I only hope to offer you an alternative perspective, and if so, you might change the way you see the idea, and make a one80, too.

I am just getting this off the ground, but I have written many of the 182 critical concepts to share with you. I’d like to begin posting regularly so that you have an opportunity to think about and practice these ideas yourself. Another mentor of mine encouraged me to hold an idea in practice for two weeks at a time, to give it time to become intuitive. I plan to post an idea every two weeks.  If the idea doesn’t strike you, move on. If an idea catches your attention, then experience it, but give it time to work its way into you. Make it your own, make it authentic. Then and only then will you realize the true power of these 182 critical concepts.

Standard Work 

The framework will be the same. The idea, the practitioner levels, a paragraph or two, and a few questions to consider. It should take you less than five minutes to read, but it might stay with you all day, or all week, or two weeks. I hope these ideas bring you the same success they have brought to me.
I hope you leave a comment when you disagree. We learn from one another when we share our differences, not when we resist and judge one another.
Welcome to the circle. I hope you join in the dialog.

Audie