WHY is

TPS
so smart?
TSSC.com

The Hidden Power of Tacit Knowledge in

the Toyota Production System

Source: Ballé, M., & Mathieu, A. Why is TPS so smart? Planet Lean.

KAIZEN MADE EASY

 Traditional organizations
focus on explicit knowledge
(written rules & processes)

But what about the tacit elements ?

💡Discover how Toyota Production System

(TPS) leverages tacit knowledge for superior
results.

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The Explicit vs. Tacit
Knowledge Divide

Explicit knowledge is easy to share

(documents, instructions).
Tacit knowledge is harder to explain
(qualitative skills, experience).

Effective knowledge combines both for true

understanding.

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The Downside
of Overemphasis on Explicit Knowledge

Focusing solely on explicit knowledge can

lead to inflexibility, missed opportunities,
and poor decision-making.

Organizations need to find a balance.

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How TPS Uses Continuous
Conversations
to Bridge the Gap

Toyota Production System doesn't rely

solely on rigid instructions.

Instead, it promotes ongoing conversations to

explore the application of explicit knowledge
(standards) in specific situations (tacit
knowledge).

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 Powerful Questions
at the Heart of TPS Conversations

TPS uses a set of powerful questions to

guide conversations.

These questions go beyond simple

optimization and focus on continuous
improvement and customer satisfaction.

Do we Who are Do we Do we Do w
phasize fraction
TPM
our encourage and mix
work
Tak
customers?
nough?
kaizen? workloads?

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Traditional Management
Frameworks
Why they fall short?

Traditional frameworks focus on financial

metrics and optimization.

TPS conversations delve deeper, exploring the

human element and context-specific
solutions.

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The Importance of
Mentorship
in Preserving Tacit Knowledge

Tacit knowledge is best passed down

through mentorship.

Sensei (teachers) in TPS ensure the spirit of

the system is understood and
misconceptions are avoided.

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The Evolving Nature of TPS -
Continuous Improvement in Action

TPS is not static. It adapts and evolves

through ongoing reflection and learning.

Conversations about its effectiveness are

crucial for its development.

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Ignoring Tacit Knowledge
The Danger of the "Digital Dream" and
Ignoring Tacit Knowledge

Overreliance on technology and explicit

systems can lead to a loss of creativity,
adaptability, and human connection.

We need to find a balance.

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 Shift your focus to fostering a culture of
conversation.

Ask "Are we doing the right things?" and "Are we

doing them right?"

Observe how people respond and adapt your

approach.

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