Lean Acres: A Tale of Strategic Innovation and Improvement in a Farm-iliar Setting

Change can be hard. It is often difficult to conceive performing tasks in a different order, in a different place, at a different time, or in a different manner altogether. And this is only for the individual. When we talk about organizational change the difficulty increases exponentially with each individual that is added to the equation. This book uses as its basis a fable - the story is not untrue, but it is not fact either. It is a story in which the group dynamics are real, the problems are valid, and the solutions legitimate. It asks you to consider a complex environment with multiple classes interacting between functional units with requirements that are perceived as exclusive and unique, and personalities that reinforce presumed boundaries. It asks you to follow along as all these individuals work together using the basics of four quality methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, Theory of Constraints, and Business Process Reengineering) to address the problems they face, discover solutions together, and move forward in their continuous performance improvement journey. Lean Acres is fantastic in its appeal and innovative in its writing style. Jim Bowie introduces an amazing convention by using talking animals on a farm (Lean Acres Farm) to represent real stakeholders and teach Strategy and Process Improvement methodologies (Balanced Scorecard, the StrateTree, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, the Theory of Constraints, and Business Process Reengineering) in ways that are easy to understand and enjoyable to learn. His step-by-step guidance through the each tool and philosophy make this book essential for Leaders, Managers, Quality Professionals, and anyone interested in improving performance in any industry. The message is simple, the illustrations are an excellent complement to the story, and the Reader interaction (Pre- and Post-Tests coupled with Rest, Reflect, and Relate sections at the end of each chapter) reinforce education, application, and relevance. Take a trip to Lean Acres today - you will be better for it. Mikel J. Harry Co-creator of Six Sigma and best-selling author.…