ThedaCare adapted the lean business practice technique commonly referred to as Toyota Production System two years ago after a visit to the Ariens Co. in Brillion. There, ThedaCare officials saw firsthand how the process was implemented.

“We were there and within 15 minutes, I knew this was the improvement system for us,” said Roger Gerard, ThedaCare’s chief learning officer.

Each week, ThedaCare has several rapid improvement events or RIEs. During that process, people from both in and out of the area affected look at an issue - for example the daily step pattern of medical surgical technician - and find ways to cut out the waste. Team members then develop a process, put it into action and see the results.