The Toyota Engagement Equation ─ How to Understand and Implement Continuous Improvement Thinking in Any Organization

From two Toyota insiders—a practical, proven formula for developing a successful Lean culture in any organization

In 1986, Toyota opened a factory in rural Kentucky and unveiled TPS, its revolutionary management system. While most manufacturers and organizations now use Lean methods, the application is almost always superficial and confined within existing management frameworks. Consequently, the groundbreaking transformation that allowed Toyota to flourish against incredible odds has rarely been replicated.

Toyota's Engagement Equation is a valuable guide to developing a Lean culture that is practical, compelling, and truly reflective of Toyota’s unique approach. The authors, two Americans who worked at the Kentucky facility and were trained by Japanese mentors, present an accessible method for replicating Toyota’s success in any organization. Step by step, you’ll learn how to internalize Toyota’s principles and successfully assimilate them into your daily work.

Highlights:

• A personal, first-hand account of Toyota’s cultural practices in action
• Introduces a practical, accessible approach to applying Lean methods in any organization
• Unique insights on subjects such as global influences, the nature of work, and the triumph of empowering workers
• Anecdotes and stories from noted Lean leaders, former mentors, and employees of Toyota’s Kentucky facility

Tracey Richardson is president/co-owner of Teaching Lean Inc. She has over 28 years of experience in Toyota methodologies and was a Group Leader in the Plastics Department at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky from 1988-1998. Richardson is certified in Toyota Business practices (8 Step Problem Solving), and returned to Toyota as an internal contractor trainer in 1999.? She is on the faculty at the Lean Enterprise Institute and lives in Ormond Beach, Florida.

Ernie Richardson is co-owner of Teaching Lean and a faculty member at the Lean Enterprise Institute. He has more than 28 years of experience in manufacturing and human resources management - production. Richardson is certified in The Toyota Way, Toyota Business Practices (8 Step Problem Solving), and specializes in Toyota Production system thinking. He resides in Ormond Beach, Florida.