Leading the Lean Initiative - John W. Davis

In his latest offering, John Davis tackles the "human" side of a lean initiative -- cultivating a lean culture and gaining employee buy-in. How managers deal with these issues will ultimately determine their success.

Leading the Lean Initiative: Straight Talk on Cultivating Support and Buy-in shows you how to lead a lean effort and effectively manage change. It is a practical manual for the new manager. Though directed at plant managers, and specifically those new to their jobs, this book benefits anyone taking on a leadership role. Davis provides complete direction on the crucial first steps and advise on competently responding to the "unknown and unexpected."

In addition the book covers how to:

• Gain the respect and active support of the workforce.
• Work effectively with unions and customers.
• Create a culture for change.
• Actively seek out key people in your organization.
• Diplomatically buck the system.
• Extend lean to the entire enterprise.
• Develop and effectively earmark your plan for operation.
• Cultivate a winning relationship with your boss.
• Deal with major setbacks in business conditions.

  Throughout the text, Davis weaves the story of Jim Warring, a plant manager who is new to the job, detailing his frustrations, challenges, and accomplishments, and how he handles the daily responsibilities of a plant manager. At the end of each chapter, Davis rates Warring on how he performed in his role as plant manager and as a leader of the plant's lean initiative by presenting "The Warring Scorecard." Davis points out where he succeeded, and where he made some serious mistakes.

  Leading the Lean Initiative: Straight Talk on Cultivating Support and Buy-in, is a valuable resource or all managers in any industry. This book will show you how to effectively lead in your organization and how to cultivate a cooperative environment.