A discussion about tools and practices - Keshikomi lists at Toyota
We share an interesting discussion about a project management tool called Keshikomi List.
Toyota makes cars. Their projects are things like industrialization of a car, car upgrade, changing the takt time of a line, etc.
So, Keshikowhat? 👇
🧑Etienne, consultant:
Hello Reynald, Let’s keep a record of our conversation about Toyota's keshikomi lists.
Ready?
👨🦳Reynald Debaut-Henocque, ex-Toyota VP Manufacturing France:
Absolutely. Keshikomi lists are essential in our project management.
They go far beyond a simple checklist, incorporating detailed information on the necessary skills, and workload, and are constantly updated through feedback.
🧑Etienne:
How do managers use these lists at Toyota?
👨🦳Reynald: Our technical managers rely heavily on keshikomi lists to detail each activity and the required skills and profiles, whether they are junior or senior.
This detailed approach allows for precise planning and efficient resource allocation. Additionally, cross-functional managers use these lists in project Obeya for optimal coordination.
🧑Etienne:
What about the format of these lists?
👨🦳Reynald:
We prefer printing in A0 paper format. 📃
This choice promotes visual management and facilitates collaboration during our weekly project reviews. Everyone can visualize and discuss activities, reinforcing management.👓
🧑Etienne:
Some people might argue that it looks like micro-management 🔬.
👨🦳Reynald:
We do micro-manage at Toyota😅. We pay attention to the details.
🧑Etienne:
Can you tell us more about the frequency and importance of the reviews?
👨🦳Reynald:
Weekly reviews are a key moment to examine the keshikomi lists, adjust planning, and ensure that skills and resources are aligned with the project needs.
It's a central practice of our project management, where we focus on the details to guarantee success.
🧑Etienne:
And for those who are skeptical about adopting such a method?
👨🦳Reynald:
I would encourage them to reflect on the effectiveness of their projects.
Keshikomi lists allow for quick and on-time delivery by providing a detailed framework for project management. It's an invitation to experience the power of visual management at Toyota.
🧑Etienne:
Thank you for this insight into keshikomi lists and their application at Toyota.
It's not just a checklist but an essential dynamic tool for the success of your projects.
👨🦳Reynald:
It was a pleasure to share our approach. Keshikomi lists symbolize our commitment to quality and efficiency, and I am convinced they can also benefit other industries.
Imagine what your keshikomi list will look like in several years from now, improved and refined over the years.
Take-away
keshikomi list = project activities + necessary skills + workload,
Constantly updated through feedback post-project,
Displayed in Obeya in A0 format (big),
Reviewed and updated every week,
Reviewed by experts, project managers and even top management.
Learn more
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Etienne Lecerf
Marris Consulting ⏳🔗📈
Value stream mapping, a core component of Lean thinking, involves visualising the entire process flow of a product or service from start to finish. It highlights the value-adding activities and identifies waste within the system. Incorporating a Keshikomi-like approach within value stream mapping can significantly enhance its effectiveness. By systematically recording issues, their root causes, and the countermeasures taken, teams can create a dynamic learning environment that continuously evolves and improves.
This practice aligns perfectly with the principles of Scrum, Kanban, and other Agile frameworks commonly used in software development today. It encourages a transparent, iterative process where feedback is rapidly incorporated, and improvements are made in real-time. Moreover, it empowers teams to own their processes, fosters accountability, and promotes a culture of continuous learning and improvement.