ABSTRACT

Kaizen teian -- the Japanese-style proposal system for continuous improvement -- is the most direct and effective method for channeling employees' creative energies and hands-on insight. This book is the first in a new three-volume set that brings the management, guidance, and development of kaizen teian systems into perfect focus.

This first volume explains many aspects of running a proposal program on a day-to-day basis and provides cartoon examples of successful kaizen teian programs in four major Japanese organizations. This concise reference outlines the policies that support a "bottom-up" system of innovation and defines the three main objectives of kaizen teian: to build participation, develop individuals' skills, and achieve higher profits. (Originally published by Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun, Ltd.)

What is kaizen? What is a teian system? Creating a system of walking suggestion boxesFrom company-oriented suggestions to job-oriented proposals Ideas have value only when implementedFrom untried suggestions to implemented improvement proposalsThe cycle of kaizen teian activityEvaluation standards: simple rules for quick decisionsExamples of implemented improvement proposal activity