Since the first two originated in the manufacturing industry,
and are actual principles and operating standards for said industry, I'm really not sure how they could be applied in management strategy.
( The Mock TurtIe ™ --- Thinks you are a cunt, on, Thu 23 Feb 2012, 16:09, 1 reply)

Try telling that to the managers in the NHS
I can see how Lean might actually work in manufacturing - it actually originates with Toyota. Although I can't help but think that Toyota one day said "hey - couldn't we make more money if we got into this management consultancy lark?" and rattled off some semi-common sense piffle.
(leviticus no longer likes the cut of your gib on, Thu 23 Feb 2012, 16:24, closed)

Lean at my workplace (a cosmetics/toiletries factory) is a very well-defined principle, and basically goes like this:
* Identify slow or inefficient process.
* Have a look at what you're actually doing to get the process done.
* Is there unnecessary movement, waiting, overproduction, wastage etc.?
* If so, what countermeasures could reasonably be used to avoid said movement, waiting etc.?
* Change process, implement countermeasures, re-evaluate, repeat as necessary.

Over the last few years they reckon it's saved the company hundreds of thousands of pounds in wasted time alone.
( The Mock TurtIe ™ --- Thinks you are a cunt, on, Thu 23 Feb 2012, 16:33, closed)

^This^
I am now a process engineer (need to update my page, mind).

I get paid for understanding Lean & Six Sigma. They're not a Bible but they are useful tools.
( ousgg is not seeking approval, Fri 24 Feb 2012, 17:00, closed)

What she said^
LEAN and six-sigma came out of manufacturing but they have principles which can be applied to all sorts of things. I've actually advised an NHS manager on how they can apply some of the stuff looking at finding the optimum time to allow for a first GP appointment to reduce the need for second appointments.

Don't worry, I'm not a consultant! I just find this stuff very useful for my job and was having a chat with someone else who was interested in the subject but couldn't quite see how to apply it.
( Afinkawan Yes I can hear you Clem Fandango, Tue 28 Feb 2012, 15:58, closed)