Lean efforts may not always be explicitly labeled “Lean.” The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation post available here discusses the importance of companies committing to “continuous and rigorous analysis of every facet of their business to identify opportunities for improvement.” Whether the process improvement ethic promoted in the post is directly influenced by Lean or not, this type of advocacy is helpful.

While continuous and especially rigorous process improvement is important, it is also vital that the other half of the Lean ethic is not forgotten. Respect for People needs to be an integral part of a shared focus on productivity and economic growth.