At a sustainability conference, a small furniture manufacturer stood out by showcasing real results from applying lean principles, such as reduced scrap and energy savings. Unlike others, this manufacturer integrated sustainability into its core operations rather than treating it as a separate program.

Regulations like the EU's RoHS Directive limit hazardous substances in electrical and electronic products to protect health and the environment. Similar laws exist in countries such as China and Japan, and several U.S. states restrict non-compliant products.

Manufacturing leaders struggle with the choice between embracing change or risking stagnation, often delaying the adoption of lean manufacturing. Despite its benefits, resistance stems from entrenched habits and misunderstandings of its full potential.

A colleague once remarked, "Quality is like water; it flows toward the gaps." This illustrates that quality supports all areas of a business, targeting weaknesses and communication gaps. Ultimately, a strong quality organization aims to improve processes and ensures customer satisfaction.