Can anyone guide me in how I can implement the KJ method into my auto parts company. we are currently striving for TS.
I have no ends in the net about this as not many peope know about it & those who know are charging a bomb. please help.

Define the KJ method?
Wallace.

I'm wondering the same thing.

Define the KJ method?
Wallace.I'm wondering the same thing.Wallace & Marc, here is a brief description.
http://www.mycoted.com/creativity/techniques/kj-method.php

Similar to an affinity diagram.

Thanks AL.
I had a look at the link. The puzzles are cool.
The KJ method is quite clearly a form of Mind mapping.
I have used this method many times yet, I haven't called it the KJ method.
I went through this method with ten angry employees in a room trying to brainstorm, I don't ever want to go through that experience again. I'd rather sit in front of my PC and play with some software.
Wallace.

Similar to an affinity diagram.

Your right Al, the KJ Method is an Affinity Diagram. And "KJ" is Kawakita Jiro the guy who is credited with inventing the method.

Regards,
Simon

This sounds like the same method we used back in the day (80's) with TQM. We would gather in a room, place a large C&E diagram on the wall, then give everyone a handful of cards. They would then write down causes and place them in the appropriate place on the diagram.

I was watching a psychology program two nights ago on Kentucky educational TV. They went through the illusions on the site linked to above. It was mainly addressing 'brain processing of information' and dealt a lot with the role of visual cues and how expectations play a large role in 'what' we see vs. reality. Some of you may remember a video some years back titled: "Paradigms: Discovering the Future". It was put out by Joel Barker and Ray Christenson. If you haven't seen this video - you've missed a good one.

Yeah, Sam. We did a similar thing when I was working on airbags at GM. We also had multiple charts - one of . I enjoyed it, actually. Heck - that was years ago.

THe KJ method is an affinity diagramming method with rigorous disciplines to ensure that the team achieves a clear and agreed understanding of the answer to a focus question. Here is a good overview:
http://software.isixsigma.com/library/content/c050622b.asp. I used this in the early 90's when we were implementing TQM as part of the Center for Quality Management under the leadership of Shoji Shiba. The detailed process almost runs itself and is almost magical in building a team understanding and revealing unexpected insights.

But I've lost my notes, which is why I'm Googling for a step by step guide. The details are really important (e.g NEVER allow more than three notes in a group; pay close attention to the level of abstraction of each stage; write sentences; NO TALKING at certain critical stages, checkpoints at key points: no going back...) so if anyone can help I'd be eternally grateful.

And yes, the CQM charge now.

Though not THAT heavily.