The Toyota Way: 14 Management Principles From the World's Greatest Manufacturer

by Jeffrey K. Liker

Principle 8. Use only reliable, thoroughly tested technology that serves your people and processes. Use technology to support people, not to replace people. Often it is best to work out a process manually before adding technology to support the process. New technology is often unreliable and difficult to standardize and therefore endangers "flow." A proven process that works generally takes precedence over new and untested technology. Conduct actual tests before adopting new technology in business processes, manufacturing systems, or products. Reject or modify technologies that conflict with your culture or that might disrupt stability, reliability, and predictability. Nevertheless, encourage your people to consider new technologies when looking into new approaches to work. Quickly implement a thoroughly considered technology if it has been proven in trials and it can improve flow in your processes.