What do you do if your ideas and opinions are not being heard in Lean Manufacturing?
Lean manufacturing is a philosophy and a set of tools that aim to eliminate waste, improve quality, and increase customer value. However, lean manufacturing also relies on the participation and engagement of all employees, from the shop floor to the top management. If you have ideas and opinions that can contribute to the continuous improvement of your processes, products, or services, you want them to be heard and respected. But what do you do if you feel like your voice is being ignored or dismissed in lean manufacturing? Here are some tips to help you communicate more effectively and assertively in a lean environment.
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Use the A3 format:When your voice feels lost in the workflow, the A3 report can be your megaphone. Craft a clear, structured problem-solving document that aligns with company goals and showcases your ideas with data-backed precision.
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Clarify and persuade:If you're hitting a wall, take a step back. Understand the resistance, then communicate your ideas again with clear benefits and supporting data. Persuasion can hinge on showing how changes align with team objectives.