The Kaizen Core team brings together Murata Finland employees who share a burning passion for improving operations and enhancing the work environment.

Kaizen is a combination of two Japanese words that together mean “good change” or “improvement.” It is a philosophy of continuous improvement based on the idea that significant improvements can be achieved through small and continuous positive changes.

We asked the Kaizen Core team to share about their activities.

What does the Kaizen Core team do?

At Murata, Kaizen belongs to everyone, but in Murata Finland’s unit, the development of the production kaizen system falls under the responsibility of the Kaizen Core team. Kaizens are improvement suggestions that anyone can make in the spirit of continuous improvement, with rewards given for the best kaizens.

We monitor how the system operates and simultaneously consider process improvements. We have revamped how kaizens are handled and actively involved production supervisors in this process. We familiarize people with the system by organizing training sessions and themed weeks.

The Kaizen Core team consists of representatives from various stakeholders who participate in team activities alongside their regular responsibilities. We all share a keen interest in developing the kaizen system.

What skills are needed in your team?

The Kaizen Core team requires individuals with diverse backgrounds from different job roles – individuals united by a desire to enhance the work environment. An active, hands-on attitude and sociability are highly beneficial. Anyone can express their interest in participating in team activities.

What is best about your work?

Changes to systems and practices at a company of this size always take time. However, it has been great to see that we have succeeded in speeding up handling development suggestions and turnaround times. Competence related to processing kaizens has improved, and this year we are expanding training even further.

It is inspiring to work in this team and see people across different parts of the organization getting excited about improving operations and understanding the importance of continuous improvement. It is rewarding to facilitate production workers’ daily tasks by promoting their development suggestions.

How do you implement Murata’s corporate philosophy and cultural etiquette?

The Kaizen Core team serves the entire company because “Kaizen belongs to everyone.” We especially strive to consider production workers’ needs and promote activities aligned with our cultural etiquette across all stakeholder groups. By helping each other, we refine our processes for stronger collaboration.

Using kaizens allows us to improve customer satisfaction as well – Kaizen lies at heart of innovation!

• The Kaizen Core Team collectively holds an impressive 110 years of experience with the Kaizen system when adding up all members’ years of experience.
• Example of initiative: One member made their first kaizen proposal on their very first day at work!