Lean Management

Toyota Lean Management and Toyota Production System utilized at ProLift Toyota shop.
TLM

What Is Toyota Lean Management?

Toyota Lean Management (TLM) is a proven, long-term approach to improving efficiency and effectiveness by developing people and the organizational culture. 

TLM focuses on eliminating waste by implementing all the elements of the lean methodology of the renowned Toyota Production System (TPS), which can be
applied to any industry.

Service technician work station organized with Toyota Lean Management and Toyota Production System.
Benefits

Benefits of TLM

Many organizations implement some form of "lean" practices but often see limited or unsustainable results due to selective adoption of lean elements. 

Toyota, the originator of lean, emphasizes that successful lean transformations are rooted in developing people at all levels and systematically eliminating waste through continuous, incremental improvement. This holistic approach fosters long-term success by building a culture of ongoing progress rather than focusing on isolated changes.

Visual Management Leads To Continuous Improvement

Toyota Way

Taiichi Oh, Engineer and Toyota Executive

The key to the Toyota Way... is having all of the elements together as a system. It must be practiced everyday in a very consistent manner, not in spurts.

Taiichi Oh

Engineer and Former Toyota Executive

ProLift Toyota warehouse and parts organization using Toyota Lean Management and Toyota Production System.
FAQ

Lean Management FAQ

Curious about Toyota Lean Management? It's a vast topic that covers everything from efficiency improvements to waste elimination and visual management. Get answers to frequently asked questions about this powerful methodology.

How Is Lean Management Different Than The Toyota Production System (TPS)?

Toyota Production System (TPS) and Toyota Lean Management (TLM) are the same practice. ProLift uses the language of "lean management" to emphasize the practices aren't limited to a production setting but can be applied in any industry or department. 

Wherever there's a process, there's an opportunity for improvement through TLM's continuous improvement and waste elimination strategies. It's a versatile approach that can optimize workflows across various organizations.

What TLM Tours Are Available?

Customers can schedule a Toyota Lean Management (TLM) tour at ProLift, both at our Louisville or Cincinnati customer support centers.

A factory tour may also be arranged to attend Toyota Material Handling in Columbus, Indiana.

Does ProLift Offer Lean Management Consulting?

While ProLift offers Toyota Lean Management (TLM) consulting to a few key customers, it is not currently available as a regular service.

Which Resources Are Best To Learn More About TLM?

A great book to learn more about the Toyota Production System (TPS) is "The Toyota Way: 14 Management Principles from the World's Greatest Manufacturer" by Jeffrey Liker. This book provides a comprehensive look at the core principles behind TPS, focusing on continuous improvement, respect for people, and the methods Toyota uses to achieve operational excellence. It’s highly recommended for anyone interested in understanding TPS in depth.

Warehouse layout and design with pallet racking.

Warehouse Layout and Design

Your partnership with ProLift begins before product is purchased. Our warehouse consultants integrate material handling systems, physical space, and the flow of material to create a streamlined, efficient process.

  • Increase storage and floor space
  • Maximize inventory & pallet positions
  • Plan for lifting height & aisle width
  • Invest in the ideal equipment for the application
How To Select Pallet Racking