Session

From Andon to Yokoten: Japanese for Agilists

Kanban, Andon, Kaizen — we’re using these words in our English-speaking knowledge workplaces, but what do they mean? The fact that many of these Japanese terms originate in manufacturing complicates matters. We’ll discuss what they mean — and why they’re important — in knowledge work today and go beyond the simple buzzwords. To help us remember not only the words but — more importantly — the concepts, we’ll use our own version of the popular “Point It” traveler’s books so that participants can have a little fun learning. Proper Japanese pronunciation not guaranteed!

Matthew Philip

Organizational Refactorer at HP

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