In this conversation, Willie Peters from Lamar Trailers shares insights into the company's journey, emphasizing their faith-based values and the importance of operational excellence through Lean principles. He talks about the challenges faced in implementing Lean in a large company (200+ employees).00:00 Introduction to Lamar Trailers02:32 Faith-Based Business Values05:33 The Lean Journey Begins08:26 Implementing Lean Practices11:46 Challenges in Lean Adoption14:35 Struggles with ERP Systems17:26 Innovative Solutions and Kanban20:36 Reflections on Lean Successes and Failures23:28 Future Directions and Closing Thoughts

Brian talks about recent life updates, time off, and keeping the rope tight with Lean. Keep the rope tight on your processes, not too tight on people.Get a FREE Lean Resource Kit with tools for your Lean implementation!https://www.leanbydoing.com/resource-kit-sign-up

In this episode of Lean by Doing, I dive into the complexities and challenges of implementing ERP systems in lean manufacturing environments. While ERP systems are often seen as solutions to a wide range of business problems, I’ve found that they can actually introduce significant inefficiencies and hidden costs. Drawing from my own experiences, I talk about the importance of data integrity, the potential for waste, and why businesses need to critically assess their reliance on ERP systems. I also suggest exploring alternatives like AI and lean methodologies before fully committing to an ERP solution.

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Chapters

00:00 Understanding ERP Systems in Lean Manufacturing

05:46 The Limitations of ERP Systems

13:59 Practical Recommendations for ERP Users

This week, we hosted our first AME 2 Second Lean Tour. One of the best questions was "Brian, what does a typical day look like for you?". I didn't get a chance to answer it then, so this week I talk about what my day looks like as a lean leader and the changes I made to get to this point. I hope this helps you in your lean journey!

00:00 Introduction to Lean Transformation04:09 The Shift in Leadership Approach04:13 Embracing the GEMBA05:03 Maximizing Existing Sales05:47 Structuring the Day for Success07:58 The Importance of GEMBA Walks10:09 Coaching for Continuous Improvement12:06 Creating Lean Content and Its Impact

In this episode, I talk about my personal experience implementing lean at Fat American Manufacturing. Here are 3 traps to watch out for and 3 tips to help you in your lean implementation. I hope this helps you and your business. If you have any tips, wisdom, experiences...leave them in the comments, they can help us all learn!Get a FREE Lean Resource Kit with tools for your Lean implementation!https://www.leanbydoing.com/resource-kit-sign-up

In this episode, Brian discusses his personal struggles with Lean implementation, focusing on five key areas: distractions from a new building project, missing KPIs, staff development challenges, the gap between expectations and reality, and the busy culture affecting leadership transitions. He emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and the frustrations that come with managing a team while striving for Lean excellence.

Brian shares his incredible lean adventure across Ireland, where he and his colleague explored various businesses implementing lean practices. They visited seven companies, each showcasing unique approaches to lean, from office organization to manufacturing processes. The journey highlighted the importance of developing people, embracing lean culture, and the community's eagerness to learn and improve. Brian reflects on the insights gained and the potential for lean practices to transform businesses in Ireland, making it a relatable model for others.Check Out the Businesses We Visited:Adman Steel ShedMurphy Precast Concrete Applied Concepts ATC Advanced Technical Concepts Seating Matters SDC Trailers Hampton Conservatories

This week, Brian and Chris discuss the journey of Command Electronics in implementing lean manufacturing practices. They explore the challenges faced during the transition, the importance of building a lean culture, and the impact of COVID-19 on their operations. Chris shares insights on improving lead times, quality control, and fostering team engagement through morning meetings and continuous improvement initiatives. The discussion highlights the significance of collaboration and innovation in the manufacturing industry, as well as the future goals of Command Electronics in expanding their lean practices.Get a FREE Lean Resource Kit with tools for your Lean implementation!https://www.leanbydoing.com/resource-kit-sign-upChapters00:00 Introduction and Backstory03:41 The Evolution of Command Electronics06:55 Challenges and Changes in Manufacturing09:43 Implementing Lean Manufacturing Practices12:38 Building a Lean Community15:55 Lessons Learned from Lean Implementation19:10 Navigating Market Challenges21:34 Innovations in Product Development25:50 Quality and Lead Time: The Key to Success31:05 Embracing Lean: The Journey of Continuous Improvement35:45 Building a Culture of Trust and Transparency41:27 Future Growth: New Opportunities and Challenges46:16 Collaboration and Communication: The Lean Advantage51:12 Exploring Lean Principles with Chris Campagna51:16 Exploring the Lean Toolkit

Brian discusses the challenges and innovations in implementing Lean practices within a business, particularly focusing on the hiring process. He sits down with new employee, Wyatt, to discuss the importance of trial days, standard work, and continuous improvement in creating a culture that aligns with Lean principles. They highlight the need for adaptability in hiring and onboarding processes to ensure a good fit for both the company and the employees.

Brian talks with Alex, the engineering manager, about the journey of the engineering team transitioning from traditional practices to Lean methodologies. It highlights the challenges faced in a conventional engineering environment, the implementation of Lean tools, and the cultural shifts within the team. The discussion also delves into product development, continuous improvement, and aligning the company's vision and mission with engineering practices.00:00 Introduction and Background03:37 Career Journey and Early Experiences06:22 Challenges in Engineering Before Lean09:28 Transition to Lean Methodology12:35 Implementing Lean in Engineering15:22 Cultural Shifts and Team Dynamics18:19 Product Development and Design Improvements21:39 Adapting to Shipping Challenges24:27 Continuous Improvement and Customer Focus27:19 Vision and Mission in Product Development30:26 Case Study: Land Cruiser Bumper Redesign33:20 Final Thoughts and Future Directions42:00 Exploring the Lean Toolkit