How does video analysis support kaizen events?

Video provides objective before-and-after evidence. Instead of relying on memory or stopwatch estimates, teams can analyze exact cycle times, identify waste categories frame-by-frame, and create visual yamazumi charts that clearly show where improvement is needed.

What is the difference between kaizen and kaikaku?

Kaizen means small, continuous improvements. Kaikaku means radical, revolutionary change. Most lean programs combine both: kaizen for daily incremental improvements, kaikaku for major process redesigns when incremental changes are not sufficient.

Glossary

Kaizen — Continuous Improvement in Lean Manufacturing

Kaizen (改善) is a Japanese philosophy meaning 'change for the better' — continuous, incremental improvement of processes, products, and systems. In lean manufacturing, kaizen involves all employees, from operators to management, in identifying and eliminating waste (muda). Kaizen events (also called kaizen blitz or workshops) are focused, short-term improvement projects typically lasting 3-5 days.

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How to Create

Yamazo Studio supports kaizen workshops by providing objective video evidence of current-state processes. Record the target process before the kaizen event. During the workshop, use frame-accurate analysis to identify waste categories (VA/NVA/MUDA), measure cycle times, and create yamazumi charts showing workload distribution. After implementing improvements, record the new process to measure and verify gains.

Example

An automotive tier-1 supplier ran a 5-day kaizen workshop targeting a sub-assembly cell. Yamazo Studio video analysis revealed 34% non-value-added time (mostly walking and waiting). The team redesigned the cell layout, and post-kaizen video analysis confirmed a 28% cycle time reduction with walking time cut by 71%.