When building a business case for a Lean implementation, there is often a need for a quick assessment of the opportunities that exist in the organization. Often a scan is also a great starting point for involving employees in Lean management to help them see where the opportunities lie in the organization.

Because Lean management is an approach that needs to grow from the work floor, it is preferable to carry out a scan in collaboration with management and employees of the organization. The goal is to create support and to use existing knowledge and expertise.

The following components are addressed in the scan:

• How clearly is the organization’s strategy reflected in its performance, behavior, structure and processes?
• How many wastes are visible by looking at your processes in a Lean way?
• How does your supply chain work with the organization to create value?
• How are employees involved in addressing improvements?
• Of course, the results can be displayed by group, team, department or organization.