Lean transformations might be easier if we possessed some measure of the sixth sense—extrasensory perception (ESP).

Sort of like in the 1999 psychological thriller film, The Sixth Sense, we might be inclined to whisper repeatedly that, “We see concrete heads.” You know, that lean euphemism for folks who obstinately resist good change.

But I’m guessing that five senses are more than enough for effective lean living.

Let’s see, as characterized by Aristotle, there’s the sense of sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste. Clearly, they are most powerful when working in concert.

That said, many lean practitioners are usually fixated on the first sense—sight.

We talk about eyes for waste, shiny eyes, direct observation, visual management, visual controls, and line of sight. We want the abnormal to be easily discernible, typically through drive-by visuals.

Yup, for good reason, we love the visual stuff.

Touch is clearly important around work and motion— think selection, differentiation, orientation—and for identifying abnormal conditions (excessive machine vibration, out-of-spec parts, feverish patients).

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