This operational excellence is based in part on tools and quality improvement methods - Jeffrey K. Liker

One Toyota executive stated the sentiment well, “Team members are the only appreciating asset we have. Everything else starts depreciating from the moment we buy it.

the only thing that adds value in any type of process — be it in manufacturing, marketing, or a development process — is the physical or information transformation of that product, service, or activity into something the customer wants.

The Toyota Way provides a model for fast, efficient, and effective execution of long-term strategy based on: Carefully studying the market and planning in detail future products and services Putting safety first for team members and customers Eliminating wasted time and resources in execution of those plans Building quality into every step of design, manufacturing, and service delivery Using new technology effectively to work in harmony with people, not simply replace people Building a culture of people who learn and think scientifically to achieve aligned, challenging goals