How We Learn in Lean TPS

Funnel diagram showing Lean TPS learning stages from reading to participation, illustrating how action learning builds capability through structure and Jishuken.

Many organizations think training means PowerPoints, lectures, and policies. The way people actually learn is very different. Reading gives little retention. Hearing adds a small amount. Pictures and videos help, but not enough. Real learning happens when people act, simulate, teach, and take ownership at the workplace. This is why

Many organizations think training means PowerPoints, lectures, and policies. The way people actually learn is very different. Reading gives little retention. Hearing adds a small amount. Pictures and videos help, but not enough. Real learning happens when people act, simulate, teach, and take ownership at the workplace.

This is why Lean TPS Basic Training begins with action learning. Participation is part of the structure. People remember because they practice, simulate, teach, and connect directly with the work. Lean TPS builds capability through structure and disciplined practice, not awareness alone.

At the top of the learning funnel is Participate 100%. This is Jishuken, meaning self-motivated study and ownership of improvement. Leaders and teams take responsibility for structured learning, research, and development through direct action. Jishuken represents the highest form of learning in Lean TPS because it develops accountability and respect for people.

Next is Simulate 90%. This is Kaizen practice and application. Teams conduct structured experiments, test countermeasures, and confirm cause and effect. Simulation transforms abstract ideas into practical understanding and builds confidence in problem-solving.

Next is Teach 70%. In Lean TPS, teaching means demonstrating Standardized Work and coaching others in problem-solving. It is supported by A3 Thinking, 5 Whys, and confirmation checks. Teaching reinforces learning and turns understanding into shared capability.

The fourth stage is View Pictures 30%. Visual learning through Andon, charts, and control boards makes problems visible and guides action at the Gemba.

At the lower levels are Hear 20% and Read 10%. These methods create awareness but not sustained skill. Without structure and repetition, awareness fades and improvement efforts collapse.

On the right side of the funnel is the definition of Jishuken. It is self-motivated enhancement study. It is not a slogan but a structured system of leadership-driven learning that distinguishes Lean TPS from compliance or certification programs.

The funnel closes with the principle: Structure + Action = Capability.
Without structure, learning is scattered. Without action, learning is temporary. When both are present, organizations build capability that endures and strengthens over time.

This is why Lean TPS training begins with 5S, Kaizen, and Jishuken. These practices teach by participation, simulation, and instruction at the Gemba. Lean TPS is not about memorizing slides. It is about developing real capability through structured learning by doing.

Introduction Artificial intelligence and humanoid robotics are entering production, logistics, and service environments faster than most organizations are prepared for. Many companies are searching for frameworks to manage this shift, but the structure they need has existed inside Toyota for nearly a century. The Toyota Production System is the only

What Mr. Ohno and Dr. Shingo would think of modern Lean interpretations
A Lean TPS visual showing what Mr. Ohno and Dr. Shingo emphasized: TPS as a complete system based on Jidoka, Kaizen, scientific thinking, and learning by doing.
Lean TPS Jishuken case study visual showing production kaizen results at a Takahama supplier, including 30 percent man-hour reduction and leadership engagement through Lean TPS Basic Training.
A Takahama Jishuken case study showing how supplier performance improved by 30 percent through structured leadership engagement and Lean TPS thinking.
Visual representing the evolution of the Toyota Production System and Lean TPS from Kaizen and Jishuken foundations.
Lean TPS connects Toyota’s industrial legacy to modern continuous improvement through reflection, Jidoka, and leadership development at the Gemba.
Visual showing Toyota leaders Mr. Sadao Nomura, Mr. Seiji Sakata, and Mr. Susumu Toyoda reviewing Lean TPS Basic Training at Toyota BT Raymond.
TPS Basic Thinking continues the tradition of Toyota Production System learning, emphasizing reflection, abnormality response, and waste elimination through structured training.
Visual showing Just In Time and Jidoka pillars from Lean TPS Basic Training with focus on lead time reduction and abnormality response.
Lean TPS Basic Training teaches how Just In Time and Jidoka work together to prevent failure, reduce stagnation, and build capability in people through the Toyota Production System.