Who are some of the key people involved in a kaizen event?

For a successful kaizen blitz event there are several people that need to be involved in the preparation, running
and follow through of the project.

The Kaizen Blitz Sponsor

Each blitz event needs a sponsor. They need to be a member of the Senior Management team and a high level
champion of the cause.

They should have overall decision making authority for the project area in question. The sponsor should be involved
in setting the scope and objectives of the project.

They should kick of the project on the first day and attend and support the event report out. They should also be responsive to the needs of the kaizen blitz project and help arrange support when required.

The Kaizen Blitz Team

A kaizen blitz event can only be as good as the people involved. Blitz events work best with a team size of
between 8 and 12 people. The breakdown of the team should be as follows:

·          1/3rd  of the team members have a day to day association with
the project area

·          1/3rd of the team members have a functional association with
the project area

·          1/3rd of the team members are not connected with the project 
area (these team members are there to ask the question why?)

Team members need to understand the target area or be willing to learn. They need to be open to doing things
differently. They must be prepared to get involved, be good communicators, and bring knowledge that will help
the rest of the team. They must also be committed to attend the whole event.

The Format of a Five Day Kaizen Blitz Event

Kaizen Training, Understanding the scope and Objectives, Walk through the
current Process

Analysis of current condition

Decide on potential improvements

Try out the new improvements and adjust where required

Present project improvements and follow up plan to wider group