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What are the most difficult industries and activities to introduce lean?

by Jamie Flinchbaugh on 06-28-11

I occasionally post on The Lean Edge, which is a post where several lean authors will contribute inputs to the “question of the moment.” The question of the moment right now is:

What are the most difficult industries and activities to introduce lean to and why?

There many answers. Some focused on industries, such as Steve Spear on healthcare and Art Smalley and Pascal Dennis both on government. Others focused on fields of practice, such as Michael Balle on the boardroom (something I’ve written about and will more) and Dan Jones brought up sales and marketing.

I took on a different angle. I’ve found each of those areas challenging but also engaging. I’ve worked in board rooms, with sales and marketing, with legal staffs. I’ve worked with government and healthcare and more. One thing they all have in common – they all thing it is tougher in their environment. So I share my thoughts on that challenge.

Comments

  • Great spin on the question. I don’t think anyone will ever concede that someone else has it harder than they do because it is about perspective and where your view of the world is from.

    Changing the discussion to why is our industry or area so difficult drives something that is actionable. Plus, other industries that think they have it the hardest might be able to relate to another industry’s reason it is so hard and everyone learns.

    Lets don’t debate about who has it hard. Lets take action to make it better.

    Matt Wrye June 29, 2011 at 9:20 am
  • Great spin on the question. I don’t think anyone will ever concede that someone else has it harder than they do because it is about perspective and where your view of the world is from.

    Changing the discussion to why is our industry or area so difficult drives something that is actionable. Plus, other industries that think they have it the hardest might be able to relate to another industry’s reason it is so hard and everyone learns.

    Lets don’t debate about who has it hard. Lets take action to make it better.

    Matt Wrye June 29, 2011 at 9:20 am
  • Great spin on the question. I don’t think anyone will ever concede that someone else has it harder than they do because it is about perspective and where your view of the world is from.

    Changing the discussion to why is our industry or area so difficult drives something that is actionable. Plus, other industries that think they have it the hardest might be able to relate to another industry’s reason it is so hard and everyone learns.

    Lets don’t debate about who has it hard. Lets take action to make it better.

    Matt Wrye June 29, 2011 at 9:20 am