Tech and AI, the Toyota Way

Key lessons from Toyota on how prudent, targeted technology that addresses specific business needs can be more effective than throwing AI and Tech against the wall in the name of modernization. We are bombarded every day with the latest news about the AI revolution, the latest “tech bros” start-up, and the hot new digital solutions to all our problems. The recurring theme is that the tech world has radically transformed and if we do not digitally transform we will go the way of the dinosaurs. Tech and AI, The Toyota Way challenges organizations to move beyond the pressure to “catch up” with AI and focus instead on what effective improvement has always required: a defined business challenge. Through ten timeless principles Dr. Liker shows that lasting improvement starts with understanding the work, identifying opportunities for improvement, and thoughtfully testing technology where it can deliver the greatest value. Technology should serve the challenge, not be the challenge. At Toyota Tech amplifies lean processes and highly-developed people instead of replacing human thinking with machines. Core cases from Toyota and other companies that have been inspired by Toyota’s lean approach are included throughout to show the efficacy of a more thoughtful and methodical approach to change. Readers will learn how to: · Consider a range of total value-stream objectives, instead of focusing only on short-term, cost-oriented technology objectives · Develop technologies that are fine tuned to support your people and processes · Train people through deliberate practice to think scientifically and objectively to test, improve and get the most out technologies · Develop in-house capabilities to create and modify technology in order to avoid overdependence on vendors Tech and AI, The Toyota Way shows business leaders and executives how to harness patience, long-term thinking, and careful planning to achieve strategic goals through the perfect combination of breakthrough and routine technologies.