So Now You Know What Lean Is, How Do You Get Started?

Ready to bring Lean principles into your laboratory? Getting started is simpler than you might think – it’s all about taking that first step toward positive change. Begin by gathering your team for a candid conversation about daily challenges and pain points in your workflow. Take a walk through your laboratory together, observing and mapping out how work actually flows (or sometimes doesn’t) from start to finish. Pick one small process that frustrates your team and make it your first improvement project. Maybe it’s reorganizing supplies to reduce walking time, or streamlining specimen receiving to prevent bottlenecks. The key is starting small, celebrating quick wins, and building momentum. Remember, Lean isn’t about making perfect changes – it’s about making continuous improvements that add up over time. Your team’s front-line experience is your greatest asset, so encourage everyone to share ideas and take ownership of solutions. Before you know it, you’ll have created a culture where improvement becomes part of your daily routine.