Episode
Stop Misusing the 2-Bin Kanban System
Mark DeLuzio discusses how the 2-Bin Kanban is meant to ensure the operator does not run out of parts. Find out why it should not be used to structure your primary Kanban system.
Let’s Make 2026 a Year of “Return to the Basics”
Mark DeLuzio discusses the confusion that exists in the Lean Community, and the Lean Consulting industry and academia are primarily to blame. Returning to Lean Basics and ignoring distractions like Kata, Gemba Walks, Lean certifications, and other consulting “innovations,” which are designed to sell books and consulting services.
Where Are The Engineers?
Mark DeLuzio discusses the absence of engineers from the Gemba in both manufacturing and design. He also discusses the sin of engineering, which he calls “Catalogue Engineers.”
Do You Really Understand the Toyota Production System House?
Mark DeLuzio discusses how the TPS House is not a set of tools, but a way of thinking, and that the tools of Lean support these principles. Starting with the tools before understanding the principles has proven to be the downfall of many companies starting a Lean transformation.
How Do You Price Your Product?
Mark DeLuzio discusses the dangers of cost-based pricing as well as the various issues encountered when doing so. He introduces the merits of market-based pricing instead.
Stop Measuring Productivity
Mark DeLuzio discusses the dangers of focusing on the lagging indicator of productivity and suggests we turn our attention towards improving our processes, which will, in turn, drive improved productivity.
Institutionalized Waste from Mura and Muri
Mark DeLuzio discusses the institutionalized waste of Mura and Muri, and if left unchallenged, it will derail a Lean transformation.
Lessons from the Danaher Business System Office III – Humble Errors: Mistakes We Made when Creating the Danaher Business System
Mark DeLuzio discusses the errors made when architecting the Danaher Business System and the things he would do differently today.
Lessons from the Danaher Business System Office II – The Role and Structure of a Lean Office
Why most lean offices fail and what it really takes to build trust, create capability, and impact strategy.
Lessons from the Danaher Business System Office I – Do You Have a Purpose?
Many Lean transformations commence without understanding why, and the communications to employees are poor or nonexistent. Mark DeLuzio talks about this failure mode and why it is essential to answer the question, “What’s in it for me?”
Problem Solving IX – Are you a Critical Thinker? The Mindset of a Problem Solver
Mark DeLuzio discusses the rules and mindset needed to be an effective critical thinker, which is essential to effective problem-solving. Every Lean coach needs to know how to solve problems effectively. Unfortunately, this knowledge is not widespread. Learn the skills required to take your problem-solving abilities to the next level.
How Compensation Systems Can Kill a Lean Transformation
Mark DeLuzio discusses the drawbacks and dysfunctional behaviors of compensation and reward systems that are not aligned with Lean Principles.