KaiZEN: the Art of Continuous Improvement

The term kaizen is derived from the Japanese words “kai” meaning change and “zen” meaning good, and is a popular business philosophy for continuous improvement used in industrial engineering. KaiZEN: the Art of Continuous Improvement is an exploration of the relationship between design and engineering, and how these principles can be applied to home and work environments for the everyday reader. Readers will learn common practices used in industry, especially manufacturing environments, and how to use the same innovative solutions in their home and work life. Applying these principles will allow anyone to thrive in a space of aesthetic and functional efficiency that can improve state of mind, quality of life, and unlock the best version of oneself. By the end readers will become more observant of their surroundings and organize their environment with intention. They will have a deeper connection to the theory of continuous improvement and realize the unlimited potential of work, life, and self. The text is delivered in the format of a “coffee-table book” with concept illustrations and easy-to-read passages and applications. The book discusses the following industrial engineering principles: Lean Six Sigma, ergonomics, human factors engineering, network optimization, the “shortest path” problem, workplace design, economics, psychology, and physiology. It also explores applications of design principles like Feng shui, hygge, color psychology, modern farmhouse, bohemian, and minimalism. The text is divided into home and work sections, with organizing recommendations for home elements, living room, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom. The work section discusses workstation ergonomics, network optimization, and budgeting.