Chris Harris of Harris Lean Systems was interviewed on leanblog.org January 23, discussing the challenged of implementing the lean mindset. You can hear the entire podcast here.
The production supervisor, in charge of managing the production associates (the machinists or those working the assembly line), is also responsible for implementing the elemental changes required to improve the system. The people most knowledgeable about the opportunities for process improvement are the people at the front line of the production.
The people that are working on the process, they add the most value to the end product, and they probably get paid the least. Respect the production associates, and cultivate a relationship with these vital coworkers to ensure the lines of communication between the skilled workers and management stay fluid. This is step 1 in establishing the lean mindset.
