GA 524 | Connection Before Correction with Royden Johnson
Apr 18, 2024
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Lean expert Royden Johnson from South Africa discusses lean practices in his country, emphasizing connection before correction, 5S implementation, moral vs formal authority, and advice for those starting their continuous improvement journey. He reflects on the state of lean in South Africa and highlights the importance of ownership and accountability in lean processes.
Connection before correction is vital in lean implementation, focusing on building trust and understanding cultural contexts.
Access to online lean resources aids continuous improvement in diverse socioeconomic landscapes, emphasizing the value of educational content like Gemba Academy.
Deep dives
Implementing Lean in a Cultural Context
Implementing lean methodologies in South Africa requires a unique approach due to the level of distrust around leadership. People must believe in the leader before accepting the vision, making connection crucial. Techniques like 5S serve as powerful unifiers, especially in a diverse socioeconomic landscape. Leading with connection before correction is emphasized, highlighting the importance of understanding cultural contexts for successful lean implementation.
Continuous Improvement Journey in South Africa
Royden Johnson shares his evolution in continuous improvement, starting as a shop floor operator and progressing to a business head. Engaging his team with online lean resources, including videos and podcasts, proved instrumental in their growth. The lack of formal education and financial constraints in Africa underscored the value of accessible continuous improvement content, like that provided by Gamba Academy.
Leadership Balance in Lean Implementation
Royden emphasizes the balance between formal authority and moral authority in leadership, essential for effective lean implementation. Connecting with employees and promoting ownership alongside accountability is critical. Drawing from personal experiences, he highlights the significance of modeling lean practices to drive cultural change.
Advice for Lean Beginners
For those starting their lean journey, understanding the 'why' behind continuous improvement is paramount. Mastery of foundational lean concepts like the PDC model and 5S sets the stage for further development. Building a network of mentors, sponsors, and coaches accelerates growth and sustains motivation for continuous improvement.
This week's guest is Royden Johnson. Ron and Royden discussed lean in South Africa, connection before correction, 5S, authority, and more. An MP3 audio version of this episode is available for download here.
In this episode you'll learn:
The quote that Royden likes (3:23)
Royden's background (4:02)
The state of lean in South Africa (10:41)
Connection before correction (13:42)
His journey with 5S (16:11)
The contrast between moral authority and formal authority (23:24)
Accountability vs. ownership (27:22)
Advice for anyone at the early stage of their continuous improvement journey (29:27)
Podcast Resources
Right Click to Download this Podcast as an MP3
Royden on LinkedIn
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What Do You Think?
How is lean different in your country compared to other places in the world?
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