Jacob Stoller

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.

W. Edwards Deming, who highlights the negative impact of outdated management practices, is an optimist—an important perspective in today's divided America. His insights provide hope, as showcased at the 2024 Deming Leadership Seminar in Columbus, Ohio, organized by The W. Edwards Deming Institute.

Many continuous improvement (CI) champions encounter resistance to adopting the necessary mindset, often perceiving individuals as closed-minded or too comfortable. Unlearning long-held beliefs can be stressful, especially for those whose careers depend on them, and psychologists note this process can often be harder than learning new skills—particularly for the most successful individuals.