By Kevin Meyer
Ever since I heard of the passing of Eiji Toyoda several days ago I have struggled to find the appropriate words to convey the impact he has had on the world of work. Mr. Toyoda is the leader that created what lean and kaizen is today, and he did so by understanding the power of people. The respect for people side of lean is more powerful than any tool, yet it remains the component least understood and underleveraged, thereby leading to most lean transformation failures.
Others with a deeper and sometimes even personal understanding of Eiji Toyoda have already penned some great commemorative thoughts.
- The Man Who Saved Kaizen by Jon Miller
- Eiji Toyoda Passes Away at 100 by Mark Graban
- Eiji Toyoda – The Master Innovator by Bill Waddell
I'd encourage you to take the time to read them, think about the wisdom of Mr. Toyoda – especially his respect for people, and carry his memory forward as you work to transform your organizations.
Rest in peace, Eiji Toyoda, you will be missed. And thank you.