148 ◾ Lean Production Simplified, Third Edition
Kaizen Circle Activity
Kaizen circle activity
3
(KCA) is perhaps the best known involvement activ-
ity. It enjoyed a brief vogue during the 1980s as North American companies
sought to imitate the Japanese success. But the soil was still infertile.
KCA confers great benefits:
4
1. Strengthens team members’ ability to:
a. Work as part of a team.
b. Lead a team.
c. Think clearly and logically.
d. Solve problems.
2. Builds team-member confidence. Team members feel good knowing
they have contributed to the company’s success. They are ready for the
next challenge.
3. Attacks critical problems with “hundreds of hands.”
Structure of KCA
A manager with a problem usually triggers a kaizen circle and acts ...