Last week I headed back to Florence, AL, USA, to the University of North Alabama, to the Agile Strategy Lab, where I delivered two two-day Lean training programs.
There were 37 participants, joining from Northern Michigan University, TAMUT Texarkana, and the University of North Alabama. There was lots of learning and lots of enjoyable activities that reinforced the learning. On the first day along with covering the Lean Fundamentals of Continuous Improvement and Respect for People, the five Lean Principles and the Eight Wastes, we carried out experiments with juggling balls, drew pictures of fish (recognizable or not), searched for missing numbers, and made many paper planes (recognizable or not). On the second day we worked our way through a model for process improvement, focussing on scoping using BOSCARD, and then we ran a simulated rapid improvement event. In the interests of simplicity and hands-on engagement we took a low-tech approach – Sharpies, Post-its and a roll of paper.
What did participants have to say about their experiences?
“Thanks for everything. This was very valuable for me.”
Northern Michigan University
“The training was well thought out and executed. I will be able to use not only the principles of Lean, but the team related activities at my workplace”.
TAMUT Texarkana
“I especially enjoyed the games that broke up the content to keep us energized, but also served a practical purpose of implementing what we were learning. I also loved how everything was questioned. This will change my perspective and how I view every process from now on.”
University of North Alabama
“I thoroughly enjoyed the training! By the end of day one, I was already brainstorming how to apply Lean in my workplace. I will definitely recommend Lean in the future. Thank you!”
University of North Alabama
If you’re in North America and are interested in attending one of my Lean training programs in Florence, or you are thinking of hosting a program yourself, the Agile Strategy Lab is waiting to hear from you!
And if you’re not in North America, please do get in touch.