Topic(s)
- Operations improvement
Overview
In the foundation of the Toyota Production System (TPS), every tool serves two essential purposes: surfacing and solving problems. While implementing lean tools like 5S may seem straightforward, sustaining them requires a strong organizational commitment to structured problem-solving. This session will explore how prioritizing problem-solving skills and developing robust support systems can drive long-term success in lean initiatives. By embedding problem-solving at the core of your culture, your organization will be better equipped to tackle any business challenge with confidence and agility.
Key takeaways
1. Problem-solving as the foundation: A structured approach to problem-solving is the cornerstone of a strong lean culture, influencing all other continuous improvement efforts.
2. Building intentional support systems: Successful problem-solving requires the right organizational structures and support systems to drive lasting impact.
3. Identifying the best starting points: Discover the most effective areas in your organization to begin cultivating a problem-solving culture.
4. Leveraging available resources: Explore tools, strategies and best practices to strengthen problem-solving capabilities across your team.
Company
A. O. Smith Corporation is one of the world's leading manufacturers of residential and commercial water heaters and boilers, offering a comprehensive product line featuring the best-known brands in North America, China, India, Vietnam and Europe.
The company was founded in 1874 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where it is headquartered today. A. O. Smith employs over 12,000 individuals at operations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, China, India, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. It also has sales and distribution in more than 80 countries around the world.
As a global leader, A. O. Smith and its employees pride themselves on applying innovative technology and energy-efficient solutions to products marketed worldwide. The company's goal is to be a leading global water technology company, and its focus is on building this platform through new product development, global expansion, strategic acquisitions and partnerships. www.aosmith.com
Presenter
Cindy Hinds has 25 years of experience implementing and teaching lean principles in manufacturing and office environments in the U.S., Canada, Norway, Iceland, Brazil, India and China. For the last six years, her role has been architecting A.O. Smith’s journey to create a culture of highly engaged people who are problem-solving or innovating to drive business performance. Her approach has focused on creating management volition in the A.O. Smith Operating System, deeply embedding the skill of problem-solving into the business and developing leaders’ coaching skills.
Hinds has a B.S. in chemical engineering, an MBA, and is a Certified Professional Coach. Hinds is also a member of the AME’s Champions Club. 
