They Just Don't Get It!

Each workaround was documented, traced to its root cause, and fixed. By doing this consistently, we sent a message: ingenuity is appreciated, but we fix what's broken. Broken Windows on the Shop Floor The Broken Windows Theory says that if a single broken window goes unrepaired, it signals that disorder is tolerated—and soon, more windows break. Workarounds function the same way. The first "clever fix" may keep production running, but if left unaddressed, it spreads. Soon, unofficial processes spread, data loses credibility, and culture drifts. The fix? Address the first workaround you see. Celebrate the creativity—but solve the root problem. Show You Care—Then Lead One of my favorite sayings is: "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care." If people believe you're for them—not just above them—they'll open up about what's really broken. That's when real improvement starts.

107