When I looked around for some basic videos to give a glimpse of Lean at work, I couldn't help but notice Paul. His videos are concise, energetic, and unmistakably simple. He demonstrates everything I love about Lean practices while leaving the behind-the-scenes value stream mapping and inventory management for a more specialized group.
Take a look at the evolution of Paul's desk as he made progressive strides toward a more Lean office.
What drew me to this is that his commitment to Lean involves everyone, himself included. I can see why employees are more willing to get on board with efficiency and waste management when the boss is also willing to walk the talk. Paul doesn't hide himself in a luxurious office. He raised his desk and ditched his chair to avoid getting too comfortable and sitting too long. But, that still wasn't Lean enough for Paul. He put his stand-up desk on wheels and eliminated his office completely, so he now spends his days on the shop floor with his new "desk," pictured in the background.
I also really enjoy Paul's explanation about how FastCap enlists every employee to help build the Lean culture, starting with the employee bathroom. Not only does FastCap save the cost of a cleaning person, but by constantly maintaining it the bathroom never gets dirty. Staff are happy to take the extra couple of seconds to clean it after each use, leaving it better than they found it. If everyone does their part, everyone enjoys a nicer work environment.
This is really common sense stuff. So, why don't we see it more often? Are workers afraid of change, or a slippery slope? Creating a Lean culture takes a little time and finesse. Paul's contagious energy is a good fit for the FastCap culture.
