ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the attributes of a culture that will be optimal and supportive for implementing Lean process improvement initiatives. A Lean culture encompasses all of the attributes of a culture that one would expect in every organization. Values can be viewed as a guiding principle of a culture that forms the basis for how members set priorities and carry out the associated actions. Symbols are the things that are visible to members of the organizations that act as a reminder of the rules and beliefs of the culture. The ability to successfully implement Lean requires that the culture of the organization be open to and able to adapt to change in conducting business. The chapter focuses on tools that can be used to assess the culture of an organization or group. Organizational culture comes together through combining various business practices that are shared by its members.
