Two of my articles (the first regarding standards, standardization, and standard work; and the second on visual standards) drew a lot of response. Readers were kind enough to share their thoughts and definitions. Some offered new terms to include in the mix: standardized work and visual standard work. Others noted that they were using visual standards a bit differently than how I described. 

Clearly, the terms defined during the 1980s have morphed. Innovators that we are, new terms have been added that parse out differences some find subtle and important—and others consider irrelevant. For example, I had dinner tonight with an ex-Toyota practitioner in the United Kingdom who stated—with strong authority—that Toyota’s term “standardized work” is synonymous with standard work. According to him, there is no difference. Who am I to argue—especially when I find the exchange itself enlivening and people’s willingness to engage, inspiring? 

 …