Books: Kaizen Event Fieldbook

(SME: Dearborn, MI) -- The Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) announces the release of Kaizen Event Fieldbook: Foundation, Framework and Standard Work for Effective Events [1], by Mark R. Hamel (SME, 2009), which details the strategies, tools, and techniques necessary for conducting effective lean events.

Kaizen event effectiveness is a prerequisite for lean transformation success. While the engine of any lean transformation is people, the kaizen event is the primary vehicle for engaging their hearts and minds. The Kaizen Event Fieldbook is a tool for teaching and engaging employees at all levels as a company seeks to institute and sustain changes.

“Ineffective kaizen events induce unnecessary suffering and can quickly derail lean implementation,” says Arthur Byrne, operating partner of J.W. Childs Associates. “The Fieldbook positions both the practitioner and the lean leader to work a lot smarter and more effectively.”

Written by Mark R. Hamel, a renowned lean Six Sigma implementation consultant, the book was designed to answer the needs of both the newly engaged and the experienced lean practitioner. Readers will get an understanding of the essential “why” and “how” of conducting effective kaizen events.

“Executing effective kaizen is always a challenge,” says Richard Levesque, vice president and general manager, professional division, MAAX U.S. Corp. “This book will benefit not only the new adopters of lean, but also the early adopters who require ‘back to basic’ understanding of how to effectively drive change.”

Julie DeWane, vice president of global supply chain at GE Security agrees. “Mark Hamel reveals the ‘tricks of the trade’ for leading effective kaizen events and emphasizes the importance of understanding and mastering the emotional element to influence and engage employees at every level, which is critical to creating a lean culture.”

The Kaizen Event Fieldbook reviews the foundation required for implementing a successful kaizen event—from the initial strategy development to the event execution to the follow-through.

“Applicable to any industry, the Fieldbook shows you what kaizen looks like when done properly,” summarizes Linford Stiles, chairman and CEO, Stiles Associates.

Mark R. Hamel is a lean Six Sigma implementation consultant and has played a transformative role in lean implementations across a broad range of industries such as aerospace and defense, automotive, building products, business services, durable goods, health care, and transportation services. He has facilitated hundreds of kaizen events and conducted numerous training sessions and workshops. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Trinity College, a master of science degree in professional accounting from the University of Hartford, and a master of arts degree in theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary. Hamel is Juran-certified as a Six Sigma Black Belt and assisted in the development of the SME/AME/Shingo Lean Certification program.