There's a dangerous misconception about what Lean is and does. In fact, it's so dangerous - and so common - that most organisations either misuse the system, miss the opportunities, or both.
Almost invariably, in my first client meeting I'll be asked: "What experience do you have in our industry?" I'm also, almost invariably, told: "I don't want to hear the same crap from you as I do from other consultants about how great a company we are."
If you want to know what will keep you in business post-new budget year and beyond, it's innovation - and unless you get with the programme now, in all aspects of your business, you're going to be left behind.
"Fairness for all". "We're in this together". It is easy for politicians elected fewer than six months ago - and who are actively legislating not to have another general election for four-and-a-half years - to talk big about how we all have to sacrifice.
Trust is a make or break for any business. It is a given that if there is no trust between you and your customer or supplier, your business relationship won't last long.