In this classic text Taiichi Ohno--inventor of the Toyota Production System and Lean manufacturing--shares the genius that sets him apart as one of the most disciplined and creative thinkers of our time. Combining his candid insights with a rigorous analysis of Toyota s attempts at Lean production Ohno s book explains how Lean principles can improve any production endeavor. A historical and philosophical description of just-in-time and Lean manufacturing this work is a must read for all students of human progress. On a more practical level it continues to provide inspiration and instruction for those seeking to improve efficiency through the elimination of waste.