Management Commitment

Companies like Microsoft, Wal-Mart, Federal Express, Chrysler, and Nike have one very important characteristic in common an undisputed leader at the top to whom members look for guidance and approval. Top managers like Bill Gates, Sam Walton, Fred Smith, Lee Iacocca and Phil Knight are the cornerstones. They possess extraordinary vision and have successfully led their companies to become dynasties in their own right.

In John Maxwell's book, The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, he describes his first law, The Law of the LID, by saying "Leadership ability determines a person's (organization's) level of effectiveness. If leadership is strong, the LID is high. But if it's not, then the organization is limited."

The initiative to implement Lean manufacturing must be driven from the top down. Top management must make a 100% commitment for change and must be 100% convinced that a Lean enterprise represents the best opportunity for continued or newfound success. A partnership led by top management or leaders, which includes middle management and workers, ensures Lean initiatives are implemented and sustained. Do not underestimate the importance of the people in the organization!

It is vital to recognize that Lean transformation will probably not work if it is entered into lightly. A CEO reading an article about Lean in the Wall Street Journal on a flight home from vacation, and then telling his top manager that "it sounds like a good idea" does not constitute top management commitment.

"After analyzing the state of our company and...