True North Thinking Inc.

Problem solving is something that every team, company and team member should work at improving their skills....but so few actually do. Why? Thanks, Matt Elson, for reminding us. #TPS #toyotaproductionsystem #continuousimprovement #processimprovement #peopledevelopment #leadershipdevelopment #kaizen #PDCA #quality #problemsolving

🔧 True North Thinking Inc.: Rooted in the Toyota Production System 🔧 At True North Thinking Inc. (TNT), our methods are grounded in the true source—the 'Toyota Production System' and the 'Toyota Way'. We focus on real-world, people-centered approaches, not the mechanistic methods common in the 'lean consultant industry.' Our goal is sustainable, long-term improvement rooted in proven principles. #TPS #toyotaproductionsystem #toyotaway #TnTkaizen #continuousimprovement #processimprovement #peopledevelopment #leadershipdevelopment #kaizen #PDCA #quality #problemsolving

🔧 **TPS Practitioners: More Than Consultants** 🔧 TPS practitioners aren’t just advisors—they DO. They focus on teaching, coaching, and actively working on the shop floor to solve problems alongside the team and rolling up their sleeves. They aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty, knowing that the best solutions come from direct engagement. As Taiichi Ohno said, “Data is of course important in manufacturing, but I place the greatest emphasis on facts.” True understanding comes from being on the shop floor, seeing the issues firsthand, and working through them in real-time. #TPS #toyotaproductionsystem #toyotaway #TnTkaizen #continuousimprovement #processimprovement #peopledevelopment #leadershipdevelopment #kaizen #quality #PDCA #problemsolving

Kaizen mind will always find a way to make work better and easier! True North Manufacturing Inc. #residentialconstruction #construction #conflowproduction #industrializedconstruction #housing #housingcrisis #crushthecrisis #Ontario #peopledevelopment

⚖️ Heijunka: The Key to Balanced Production ⚖️ In production environments with multiple products and varying work content, keeping things efficient can be a challenge. That’s where heijunka comes in. Heijunka, a core concept of the Toyota Production System, focuses on leveling production by smoothing out variations in volume and variety and balancing the workload across all processes. This helps to highlight muda, minimizes excess inventory, and ensures a steady flow—no matter how varied the products or tasks. By implementing heijunka, organizations can maintain both +efficiency+ and +productivity+, delivering what’s needed, when it’s needed, without overburdening their teams. #TPS #toyotaproductionsystem #toyotaway #TnTkaizen #continuousimprovement #processimprovement #peopledevelopment #leadershipdevelopment #kaizen #PDCA #quality #problemsolving

🚨 The "2x4 Rule" and Your Organization 🚨 Many organizations unknowingly operate under the 2x4 Rule:   - Twice as many people as needed   - Processes taking twice as long as they should   - Holding twice as much inventory as necessary - A capacity that can produce twice as much with current resources The surprising truth? By applying the principles of the Toyota Production System, businesses can streamline processes, reduce waste, and unlock their true potential—without additional resources. The path to improvement is already in place. It’s time to tap into it! #TPS #toyotaproductionsystem #toyotaway #TnTkaizen #continuousimprovement #processimprovement #peopledevelopment #leadershipdevelopment #kaizen #PDCA #quality #problemsolving

🔍 Knowing vs. Seeing: Lessons from a True North Thinking Inc. (TNT) Customer A conversation with a TNT customer reminded me of the power of SEEING things firsthand rather than just KNOWING them in theory. It's a vital part of developing capabilities in the Toyota Production System, continuous improvement, and people development.  Asking basic questions like:   "What did we learn?" "What's next?" These simple reflections drive us forward, helping teams develop critical thinking, build skills, and keep improving every day. Let’s keep asking the right questions to grow stronger together. (Pictured is part of the reflection presentation from the customer) #TPS #toyotaproductionsystem #toyotaway #TnTkaizen #continuousimprovement #processimprovement #peopledevelopment #leadershipdevelopment #kaizen #PDCA #quality #problemsolving

This is what happens in organizations without a strong vision of true north and the methods to get there... #TPS #toyotaproductionsystem #toyotaway #continuousimprovement #processimprovement #peopledevelopment #leadershipdevelopment #kaizen #PDCA #quality #problemsolving

Management Principles of the Toyota Production System: Driving Toward True North The Toyota Production System (TPS) is more than just operational tools; it's a management philosophy focused on continuous improvement, problem-solving, and people development. Here's how TPS management principles drive daily progress: 1. Driving Toward True North "True North" represents the ideal state: highest quality, least waste, and meeting customer needs. For TPS managers, this is a daily pursuit, ensuring every action aligns with the company's long-term goals. 2. Focusing Management Attention with TPS Tools TPS uses tools like a visual management system and standardized work to provide real-time visibility into operations. These tools help managers identify problems, track progress, and create a foundation for future improvement. 3. Systematic Knowledge Sharing Knowledge sharing in TPS is critical. Methods like **Go & See** (Genchi Genbutsu), problem-solving using a structured method, and clear communication through daily PDCA presentations and reports ensure improvements are understood and sustained. 4. Creating a Supportive Culture A supportive culture is key to TPS success. Managers act as coaches, fostering an environment where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities. Respect for people, open communication, and leadership by example are fundamental. TPS management principles create a culture where continuous improvement thrives. By aligning daily actions with True North, using tools to focus attention, sharing knowledge, and supporting teams, managers can drive sustainable growth and excellence. #Toyotaproductionsystem #TPS #Continuousimprovement #Peopledevelopment #Kaizen #Toyotaway #processimprovement #leadershipdevelopment #PDCA #quality #problemsolving

One of the most impressive transformations of my entire career... From traditional management / operations to one that embraces TPS thinking and approaches. #TPS #toyotaproductionsystem #toyotaway #TnTkaizen #continuousimprovemnent #processimprovement #peopledevelopment #leadershipdevelopment #kaizen #PDCA #quality #problemsolving