Lean Principles from Hitchhiker’s Guide to Lean
Lean is born from how we think. Most efforts at lean transformation focus too much on only tools and projects, but it’s the principles and behaviors that separate excellent lean journeys from the rest. Jamie Flinchbaugh and Andy Carlino outlined 5 principles for lean thinking in the book The Hitchhiker’s Guide to Lean, and this video course walks you through these lean principles.
Watch the Lean Principles from Hitchhiker’s Guide to Lean on YouTube
Discover why Lean is born from how we think, not just tools and practices. Learn how shared principles create sustainable change, why focusing on behaviors drives real transformation, how connecting tools to principles makes them more powerful, where the five universal Lean principles apply throughout your organization, and why making Lean your own leads to lasting results.
Don’t assume and go observe directly. Structured observation beats random data collection—use frameworks to guide what you look for. Deep examination reveals opportunities others miss. Different mapping tools show system connections. Patient observation solves problems that quick fixes can’t touch.
Finding waste means nothing without immediate action. Systematic approaches turn scattered improvements into lasting organizational habits. The seven wastes give you both a framework and shared language across teams. Knowledge work waste differs from production waste—task-switching creates hidden inefficiencies that drain productivity. Eliminating waste frees resources to invest in your organization’s future growth.
Behaviors of Systematic Problem Solving
Deciding to solve problems is the first behavioral step that matters. Curiosity drives learning when knowledge gaps appear. Cross-functional collaboration beats individual problem-solving. Systematic approaches prevent jumping to conclusions. Match problem complexity to methodology to maximize resources. Five Whys works when you focus on actionable causes, not hitting a specific question count.
Establish High Agreement of Both What and How
Valuing shared methods over individual preferences creates organizational clarity. Establishing agreement is continuous, not a one-time document. Effective standardization involves those doing the work. Missing “how” agreements cause meeting confusion and failed execution. Specify standardization goals for better implementation. Clear distinctions between normal and abnormal conditions enable improvement.
Creating a Learning Organization
Learning drives all Lean principles. Learner mindsets beat knower mindsets for better decisions. Effective PDCA cycles check outcomes, not just task completion. After Action Reviews capture successes and failures through structured reflection. Proactive learning creates purposeful improvement opportunities. Integrating these principles into daily work makes Lean practices sustainable.