Problem solving with the Ishikawa Fishbone Diagram
The Ishikawa Fishbone problem solving tool (also known as the Cause and Effect diagram) was developed by Kaoru Ishikawa during… Read More »Problem solving with the Ishikawa Fishbone Diagram
James Dyson – Invention: A Life of Learning Through Failure
In this post, I explore some of the principles, life lessons and reflections from James Dyson’s autobiography. A true maverick,… Read More »James Dyson – Invention: A Life of Learning Through Failure
Romania in a Weekend: Castles, Carpathians, and Curiosity
Some places make you want to leave as soon as your flight is called. Romania isn’t one of them. By… Read More »Romania in a Weekend: Castles, Carpathians, and Curiosity
The Nvidia Way Meets the Toyota Way
20 Leadership Lessons from Jensen Huang Through a Toyota Lensby Edward Leared Working at Toyota has given me an appreciation… Read More »The Nvidia Way Meets the Toyota Way
Career lessons from Marc Andreessen
Mark Andreessen, a software engineer and founder of the VC firm Andreessen Horowitz penned a series of essays on the… Read More »Career lessons from Marc Andreessen
The Hamming Question: Are You Solving the Right Problems?
The Hamming Question challenges us to ask: Am I working on the most important problems? Used by top founders and high-performing employees alike, it’s a powerful framework for cutting through busywork, focusing on impact, and aligning with what truly matters, whether in startups, careers, or teams.
Eliminating Waste for Maximum Efficiency: Muda, Muri, and Mura in the Toyota Production System
The Toyota Production System focuses on enhancing efficiency by addressing three key wastes: Muda (non-value-adding activities), Muri (overburden), and Mura (unevenness). Utilizing tools such as Takt Time, Heijunka, Kanban, and Poka-Yoke is pivotal in maintaining a balanced workflow, reducing errors, and synchronizing production with market demand. These strategies promote lean, consistent, and high-quality operations within the manufacturing process.
Genchi Genbutsu: A Deep Dive into the Toyota Management Philosophy
Genchi Genbutsu, a core Toyota philosophy, means “go and see for yourself.” It encourages leaders to visit the source, observe firsthand, and gather real facts. The Ohno Circle exemplifies this by training managers to spot inefficiencies through disciplined observation, driving better decisions, continuous improvement, and respect for frontline work.
5S: The Low-Cost, High-Impact System Driving Workplace Efficiency
5S is a simple, low-cost methodology for creating clean, efficient, and organized workspaces. Originating from Toyota, it focuses on sorting, systemizing, shining, standardizing, and sustaining. Widely used across industries, 5S improves productivity, reduces waste, and fosters continuous improvement in both physical and digital environments.
Why Do Tech Companies Often Trade at High P/E Multiples?
It’s not just hype, it’s accounting. Many tech companies appear expensive when judged by traditional valuation metrics like the price-to-earnings… Read More »Why Do Tech Companies Often Trade at High P/E Multiples?