Hoshin Kanri

By: A Staff Writer

Updated on: Jul 19, 2024

What: Japanese system (meaning “policy deployment”) linking long-term strategic goals with daily activities and improvement efforts.

Who: Roots in management practices at Toyota and other Japanese companies post-WWII.

Why: Helps ensure everyone is rowing in the same direction, making entrepreneurs less likely to get bogged down in the daily grind while losing track of the big picture.

When: Best for established businesses with multiple levels and a need for better alignment.

How:

1. 1. Start with top-level strategic goals.
   2. “Catchball” process – goals are broken down into action items at each level.
   3. Regular progress reviews and adjustments are essential.