What is kata?

Kata is a Japanese term and is used in many Japanese martial arts. Literately mean “way of doing” and refers to a series of practice moves to build on form and technique. 

What is the core form and technique that we want to build in leaders?
1. The ability to systematically improve processes toward a clear target (Improvement Kata) and
2. The ability to coach others on the Improvement Kata (Coaching Kata).

When we say Toyota Kata we are really describing the Toyota habits for continuous improvement to solve problems and the Toyota habits for continuous coaching to mentor leaders.

Improvement kata clearly present the distinction between process improvement and the psychology of true lean improvement.