Big - or small - reflections on management for 2022

Another year is upon us, which is a good time for some reflections on management, inspired by the lean system, that can help guide our mindsets and actions to work better in 2022.

Big changes, when it comes to people's routines and behaviors at work, result from aspects that may seem small and simple, but that demand a great deal of effort to become embedded in the day-to-day culture and discipline. And, when that happens, they bring great results.

Here, then, are a few “pills” of thinking inspired by lean management, to reflect on, research and, above all, practice in the coming year. Depending on how they are approached, they may be considered “big” or “small” changes that are worth trying.

One of the essentials of management should be to identify and eliminate waste in processes – every day.

Processes are always surrounded by waste, work that consumes resources but does not add value for customers.

Efforts must be centered on adding value for customers, who are the ones who matter most; that is, producing and delivering what they want and value.

Never forget that deviations are usually the result of bad processes; so it is necessary to “blame” the processes before blaming people.

Revealing and solving problems every day, in every area, should be the basic daily routine of everyone in every organization.

“Continuous improvement” means everyone in the organization taking a critical look, every day, at every process, with the aim of revealing waste, solving problems and increasing the value added for the customer.

It is fundamental to align the improvements being sought with a clear, objective and relevant purpose that the company wants to achieve, always focused on serving customers better.

Pursuing the everyday development of all the people in the organization is a powerful way to improve processes, because it is people who make improvements…

…and the essence of a leader is precisely to develop their team members in this direction, always grounded in respect for people.

These are just a few reflections; of course there are many others…

And you, dear reader, what other reflections on management would you propose for 2002?

Happy New Year!