In addition to those performing the work, who else should be included on a Kaizen event team?

Including representatives of the groups who execute process steps before and after the work activity in a Kaizen event team is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, these representatives can provide valuable insights and perspectives on how their processes interact with the work being analyzed, which helps identify gaps, dependencies, and opportunities for improvement across the entire workflow. By having input from these stakeholders, the team can create more effective solutions that enhance overall process efficiency and effectiveness.

Moreover, the collaboration between different process stages fosters a comprehensive understanding of how changes can impact not only the focused work area but also upstream and downstream processes. This holistic approach aligns with the principles of continuous improvement that underpin Kaizen methodology, ensuring that initiatives lead to sustainable improvements rather than isolated fixes.

Other options might not capture the same level of teamwork and integration. For example, external consultants may have expertise but lack the specific knowledge of internal processes, while only including upper management might overlook the practical insights of those directly engaged in the work. Additionally, involving employees from unrelated departments could divert focus away from the specific improvement efforts needed in the targeted area. Therefore, including representatives directly tied to the workflow being improved ensures the Kaizen team is well-rounded and effective in driving meaningful change.