Every organization can benefit from Hoshin Kanri (HK) even if the organization has pre-existing management structures, or strong organizational culture. The adopting company can choose between entirely embracing detailed HK management principles, or adopting only several main principles. Whichever approach is chosen, the following 3 main elements should be adopted:
The X matrix is a powerful document that describes the strategy and strategic actions on one page. It helps in finding the focus. The progress of KPIs and strategic projects is updated regularly in the X matrix. Here is our X matrix guide link.
Besides the X matrix, each organization should also define the following standard documents:
Sections explained:
You can also view a short explainer video about the X matrix:
The alignment dialogue, or “Catchball,” is a stage in which objectives, plans, and KPIs are reviewed and recorded inclusively. The role of middle management is significant, making their involvement important. In the dialogue, the organizational unit or team has received higher-level objectives. On that basis, the teams are asked to develop their objectives and plans that support the higher-level objectives. If the objectives cannot be committed to, a discussion will take place, and the necessary changes will be agreed upon. Dialogue is an efficient way to strengthen commitment and ownership.
The management process is an essential part of a successful Hoshin Kanri implementation. Management processes aim to ensure that everyone knows what is being done, when, and why. Furthermore, a robust management process enables transparency and timely corrective actions if needed.
Basic elements of the management system:
Implementing Hoshin Kanri doesn’t require much from the organization, but the results can be observed quickly after its adoption. HK method supports leadership development; therefore, the results tend to improve yearly.
Amplon uses the Hoshin Kanri principles to engage all employees and to visualize the strategy. Read more about how Amplon features will benefit you.
With Amplon, companies can design a bottom-up strategy and easily adapt this software to their culture and processes. Amplon makes sharing common development projects and activities easy, ensuring focus in the organization. Instant strategy monitoring through software dashboards allows the immediate reaction to any deviation. Read here why you should implement Hoshin Kanri with software, not Excel spreadsheets.
The “Ultimate Hoshin Kanri X Matrix Guide” provides an in-depth exploration of the X Matrix as a critical tool for strategic planning and execution. This guide details how the X Matrix aligns organizational objectives, improvement projects, and KPIs to ensure cohesive strategy deployment across all levels. With a focus on clarity and alignment, the X Matrix simplifies complex strategic processes into a single, visually engaging framework.
Hoshin Kanri software, like Amplon, revolutionizes strategic planning by using a digital X matrix to align organizational goals with vision and mission, ensuring transparency and collaboration. This approach offers real-time data updates and intuitive interfaces, making the strategic process more agile and efficient than traditional Excel tools.
Hoshin Kanri is a strategic planning method that aligns an organization’s long-term vision with its daily operations, ensuring continuous improvement and clear communication across all levels. By focusing on setting and achieving breakthrough objectives, Hoshin Kanri helps organizations stay on track toward their strategic goals.
Comparing Hoshin Kanri, OKR, and Balanced Scorecard (BSC) reveals differences in how these frameworks align goals with execution. This article helps you to choose the right approach for your organization’s strategic needs.
What unites Toyota Way, Danaher Business System, and GE’s Flightdeck?
These companies have branded the Hoshin Kanri method as their management system.
