Kata Resources - Lean Competency System

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Kata Resources

Understanding kata

This section provides an introduction to the kata fundamentals

History

Where does kata come from and how has it developed? How does it fit with general improvement approaches?

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The Improvement kata

In Toyota Kata, Rother outlined a scientific approach to problem solving as a four step model termed the “Improvement Kata.”

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Coaching kata

The Coaching Kata is a master-apprentice approach to teaching - the coach gives input on what is being practiced, corrects as they practice, and the learner continues to practice with the new input.

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Kata and lean thinking

Kata can complement lean thinking and improve its effectiveness

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Videos

Toyota Kata = Enabling a Lean Culture

A 30 minute presentation by Tilo Schwarz on the Improvement Kata and Coaching Kata.

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Introduction to Toyota Kata

Presented by Mike Rother, author of 'Toyota Kata'

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Toyota Kata Channel

A rich resource of kata videos on Mike Rother's YouTube channel

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Useful Links

Toyota Kata Wikipedia Entry

Check out what Wikipedia has to say about kata.

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Mike Rother’s Kata in the Classroom

Free exercises to help you teach scientific thinking

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Mike Rother’s Homepage

Links to guides, supporting materials, videos, books, slide shares and workshops.

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Kata School (UK & Ireland)

A community for Kata practitioners, current and aspiring, in the UK and Ireland. A not-for-profit organisation, run by volunteers.

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Accredited Organisations Resources

KCS Approved Trainer Certificate

An exclusive certificate for those delivering on and supporting KCS accredited programmes

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Books

Toyota Kata: Managing People for Improvement, Adaptiveness and Superior Results

By Mike Rother, McGraw-Hill Education (2009).

Amazon link

The Toyota Kata Practice Guide: Practicing Scientific Thinking Skills for Superior Results in 20 Minutes a Day

By Mike Rother, McGraw-Hill Education (2018).

Amazon link

Toyota Kata Culture: Building Organizational Capability and Mindset through Kata Coaching

By Mike Rother, McGraw-Hill Education; Spi Edition (2017).

Amazon link

Becoming the Change: Leadership Behavior Strategies for Continuous Improvement in Healthcare

By John Toussaint & Kim Barnas

Amazon link

The Toyota Way - 14 Management Principles from the World's Greatest Manufacturer

by Jeffrey K Liker

Amazon link