Inspiring Educational Film – Before We Called It Lean: A History
After spending many hours and dollars, we are proud to present this non-profit film: Before We Called It Lean: A History. This film is based on my book, The Progressive Machine: Before We Called It Lean.
Before We Called It Lean … Why the History?
Many years ago, I was asked to make a case for Lean not being a fad by those who became believers, but wanted to spread to a broader audience.
At the time, there was concern by leadership to commit to Lean after announcing a growth strategy because Toyota had experienced some very public quality concerns which a Toyota leader linked to growth. We proved with data that their production system was still very strong, but we needed more.
I prepared a simple slide about the history of the innovations that eventually culminated into the Toyota Production System, the basis for what many call Lean today.
With anything, there is much debate about Lean, but I happen to support it, namely because of its humanity, at least in my experience. After my presentation, I was thrilled to hear that others felt much like I did (and still do).
Publishing ‘The Progressive Machine: Before We Called It Lean’
After being caught in a reduction in force, and accepting a severance package, I used the extra time to convert my PowerPoint slide into a book. Easier said than done. That exposed me to the rigors of publishing and there were many lessons learned. By December 2019, the electronic version of the book was self-published.
My next was picked up by a hybrid publisher, Warren Publishing, and I was pleased when they also picked up the Progressive Machine. In July, 2021, the second edition was published. Awkwardly, this gave me the opportunity to ‘Lean’ out the book (yep…I removed stuff). I thought that would be the end, but I was wrong.
Inspiring Education Film
A very good friend of mine approached me about recording a one-hour film for his class based on The Progressive Machine. He needed it in three days. He expected me to get in front of a camera, give a talk and that would be it, but that wasn’t what I wanted to do…I don’t like being lectured, and I don’t like to lecture.
I wanted to inspire. As a kid, I was inspired by Steven Spielberg and wanted to become a film director, but that’s not the path my life took. This request by my friend sparked something in me, and so my wife and I went over the top to produce a film and we delivered it on time.
It was a relief to complete the film, but it never set right with me. It was too rushed, and I wanted to produce something better, so my wife and I spent the next six months to produce a non-profit film form educational purposes only. Our hope is that it would inspire others to learn more about the subject.
A Highlight – W. Edwards Deming Institute
While compiling footage for this film, I decided I really needed something more on Deming. I reached out the W. Edwards Deming Institute, asking them permission to use some of their photos for the film. They agreed, and that was a major highlight for this filming experience. Learn more at their website.
Resourcing the Film
We were motivated by the idea that this film maybe helpful to others to drive value in their organizations and more importantly, explore the humanity that a Lean journey can help to do.
This film was primarily self-funded, though we did get some help from my friend who requested the film. Also, we were fortunate to have the wonderful Terry Blackman to do some of the voice-overs.
Humor note: we are not filmmakers, so there will be some technical things that we hope you will just chuckle at.
If you’d like to support our efforts, please purchase a copy of the Progressive Machine on our website at our bookstore. The book is also available at other popular book retailers such as Amazon and Barnes&Noble.
Warning and Disclaimer About the Film
This film is a non-profit film for educational purposes only.
Warning: This film contains historical footage that may be disturbing for some audiences include wartime videos, surgeries and more. Verbiage used in this film may represent the time from which it originates.
All rights reserved. This film may not be reproduced or stored in whole or in part by any means without the written permission of Coulson Place Enterprises, LLC.
The information contained in this film is true to the best of the producer’s knowledge, but the producers and all those involved in the making of this film disclaim all liability in any connection to the use of this film.
Disclaimer: Consult your legal counsel for information this film for guidance on applicable federal and state laws. Coulson Place Enterprises, LLC and those associated with this film disclaim all liability with any connection to the use of this film.