More advanced is steady-state lean—an end-to-end approach to addressing
issues affecting the operational flow of a value stream. These
efforts often begin in pursuit of whatever challenge presents itself
first, with a primary emphasis on eliminating waste within current
operating conditions. Some businesses progress farther, advancing
to apply many of these principles to attain an increased focus on dynamic
lean—leveraging lean tools and practices to create an ability
to right themselves when things go wrong, maintaining internal
stability and, therefore, more consistent delivery of value, despite
uncertain or shifting conditions (these levels are discussed further
in Chapter 7).
Companies like Toyota go farther still, advancing to strategic
lean—pursuing new business strategies by drawing on their greater
internal stability to create steady, growing value across a broad range
of circumstances. Companies like Southwest Airlines appear to
have advanced to the ultimate maturity level—attaining what might
be described as sustainable lean. These businesses have succeeded in
so deeply entrenching the principles of lean dynamics that their value
curves—the hallmark of lean—remain virtually flat even in today’s
crisis. They look beyond such traditional measures as market share
and advancing at a strong but cautious pace. Perhaps more importantly,
they succeed in driving a fundamental shift in how leaders
view the creation of value for their customers—reaching out to transform
the business environment and reshape customer expectations
to better value their capabilities.
Their sustained excellence demonstrates what some have long
surmised—that restructuring to a different way of doing business can
overcome many of the challenges that have been traditionally simply
accepted as part of doing business. These organizations ultimately
transform the business environment itself—raising the bar for value
across the industry and transforming expectations for customers and
the workforce alike.
Creating a Structure for Advancement
What is particularly important about recognizing these levels of lean
maturity is the visibility it can create for companies regarding the
range and challenges of lean projects. By understanding the contin