Introduction

We drafted the contents of this workbook with several specific goals in mind. One aim is to trace and communicate the main origins of Kaizen since the inception of Toyota Motor Corporation. Another main intent of this workbook is to articulate the basic six-step Kaizen improvement skills pattern that was taught inside Toyota. The steps are similar to other improvement programs in the past as well as problem solving and the scientific method. A third goal is to help practitioners of Kaizen improve their own skill level and confidence with this topic by simplifying it and removing as much of the mystery in the process as possible.