
Lean Production System ◾ 23
The “Thinking Way”
Lean senseis (ones who have gone before) emphasize the “thinking way.”
7
Everything else can be taught. But how can we deepen our thinking? How
can we develop richer mental models?
8
Through self-awareness and endless
practice.
9
Think of a samurai warrior polishing his blade, hence, the do, or
path concept (which is discussed further in Chapter 9).
BEGINNER’S MIND
One of the nice things about Toyota manufacturing offices is that there
are no walls, literally. Therefore, one is able to ask smart people basic
questions.
I once asked a Toyota executive to tell me the plan-do-check-act cycle.
He responde ...