I had an interesting discussion about how the “Human Side” is or could be addressed in a practical way. It was described how one company is “engaging” suppliers and employees and how to possibly assess the cultural status quo.

A cultural assessment might consist of a “questionnaire approach” plus a “Genchi-Genbutsu” (go and see for yourself) approach where you just observe people and situations. Additionally top management is seeking close contact to the Gemba (place were action takes place) inside and outside the company.

Toyota is using a very advanced recruiting methodology that might take up to two (2) years – form first contact of hiring. A significant part of this assessment is most likely the personality evaluation of a candidate.

I wonder if Toyota is using any cultural assessment tools (questionnaire or observation) in their daily operation or during their periodical employee evaluation.

I would very much welcome any comment that might help clarifying this issue.

Thank you,
Regards,

Juergen Boenisch