Your Lean Learning Journey
Explore online Lean courses designed to help you understand key concepts, build practical skills, and put better thinking to work. From free introductions and focused courses to AI-powered learning and university certificate programs, find the option that fits your goals.
Learn. Apply. Improve. Advance.
For individual learners
Brand new AI course
Lean Learning AI: Lean Rules, Principles & Mapping
Earn your Lean Yellow Belt Certification with Lean Learning AI.
Build a strong foundation through 18 interactive, AI-powered lessons. Learn at your own pace, get personalized feedback, and apply Lean concepts to real-world situations.
For university students
Oakland University Green Belt Certification
This course is for Oakland University students only. This Lean Learning Center certificate program is conducted in conjunction with Oakland University’s ISE 4484/ME 4710 class.
For university students
Kettering University Green Belt Certification
This course is for Kettering University students only. This Lean Learning Center certificate program is conducted in conjunction with Kettering University’s IME 476 class.
Explore Individual Lean Courses
Choose a course below to view its description, learning objectives, and details.
Introduction to Lean Thinking FREE5 minutes
This module establishes lean thinking as the foundation of any continuous improvement effort. This module briefly introduces the five principles and four rules of lean, defines the differences between rules and principles and significance of both in establishing common thinking within an organization.
Number of modules: 1
Approximate run time: 5 minutes
What Can Lean Do For You? FREE5 minutes
In this free presentation, the managing partner of Lean Learning Center, Bill Artzberger, explains the concept of “lean” and a few common characteristics of a lean organization. Bill also introduces the four Lean Rules and five Lean Principles that form the bedrock of all lean initiatives.
Approximate run time: 5 minutes
5S125 minutes
Provides a deep dive into the 5S tool to help establish a clean, organized, efficient and safe workplace. Through this course, learners will:
- Identify key areas to implement the 5S process and establish effective communication strategies for the 5S implementation
- Distinguish between essential and nonessential items
- Organize the essential materials in the workplace
- Plan and implement a cleaning regimen
- Establish rules and procedures to support the ongoing efforts of “Sort”, “Set In Order” and “Shine”
- Develop tools to measure 5S progress
- Includes a short module on the “6th S”: Safety
Number of modules: 9
Approximate run time: 125 minutes
Error Proofing35 minutes
This course takes a deep look Error Proofing as a structured and standardized method to proactively build standards into a system or process to prevent mistakes caused by humans, machines, and processes. Through this course, learners will:
Explore the structure of the A3 Report
Identify benefits error proofing
Examine the three basic functions of error proofing devices
Identify common error proofing devices used in everyday life
Be able to recognize the type and function of those common error proofing devices
Number of Modules: 1
Approximate run time: 35 minutes
Introduction to Lean Kata50 minutes
This course introduces Lean Kata as a way to bridge the gap between episodic continuous improvement and everyday improvement. We explain the two different kata, the improvement kata and the coaching kata, and highlight how these two processes lead to scientific thinking.
Number of modules: 3
Approximate run time: 50 minutes
Introduction to Lean Rules and Principles150 minutes
Recommended as the first course to complete, this course establishes lean thinking as the foundation of any continuous improvement effort. This course briefly introduces the five principles and four rules of lean, defines the differences between rules and principles and significance of both in establishing common thinking within an organization.
Why Lean Rules Rule:
Introduces the four rules of lean that provide the steady and reliable criteria for objectively evaluating processes to determine opportunities for improvement. Throughout this series, learners will acquire
- An overview of structured activities and the criteria necessary for designing structured activities as well as an understanding of the impact that unstructured activities have on the completion of work
- Recognition of the hundreds of customer-supplier relationships that exist both within the organization and outside the organization and the requirements for establishing clear connections to ensure consistent and reliable responses
- An awareness of the flow paths that people, material and information follow for work completion and the impact that multiple flow paths have on the work results produced
- A structured method for planning and testing experiments to improve work
Principles with a Pow!
Introduces the five principles of lean required to establish common thinking and guide the behaviors and actions displayed by those working within an organization. Throughout this module series, learners will acquire:
- A common lens for conducting objective and factual observation of work processes to identify improvement opportunities
- An understanding of the critical role of establishing high agreement to align the efforts of others in goal accomplishment
- A common lens and language for identifying waste within work processes and communicating the presence of waste to others
- An awareness of the difference between firefighting symptoms of problems and using a structured and systematic approach for permanently addressing the root cause of a problem
- Recognition of the role that structured, daily learning plays in continuously moving an organization toward achieving its ideal state vision for performance and operations
Number of modules: 24
Approximate run time: 150 minutes
Introduction to Mapping80 minutes
Provides an overview of mapping techniques that can be utilized to document direct observation efforts and establish alignment on the current reality of a work process. Throughout this course, learners will:
- Identify the top-down flow chart as an effective mapping technique for providing a high-level overview of a work process and define a structured process for building the Top-Down Flow Chart.
- Identify the people who contribute to work completion, the activities completed by each, and the time committed to the completion of those activities through the Activity Map.
- Be able to document the transformation of the product from components to completed product as it moves through the system using the Product-Process Map.
Number of modules: 5
Approximate run time: 80 minutes
Introduction to Problem Solving Using the A3 Report95 minutes
Provides a deep look at problem solving using the A3 Report as a structured and standardized method to support problem solving efforts within an organization. Through this course, learners will:
- Explore the structure of the A3 Report
- Identify benefits of A3 Report usage
- Define criteria for writing effective problem statements
- Define containment measures as a temporary measure to minimize problem impact on a work area
- Analyze techniques for reaching the root cause of problems as an activity, connection or flow
- Identify what is realistically achievable en route to the idea state
- Brainstorm process improvements to achieve desired results
- Determine progress of executed actions and improvements
Number of modules: 5
Approximate run time: 95 minutes
Leading Lean1 hour, 30 minutes
Our Leading Lean course will help leaders move their organization through it’s lean journey. This course will provide you with the skills to strategically grow knowledge and develop internal skills and resources to ensure that lean transitions from an organizational initiative to the ‘way we do business around here’. This course consists of five lessons, and the learner should have a working knowledge of the Lean Rules and Principles and have completed either our Lean Foundations or The Lean Experience class.
Though this course, learners will:
- Identify the impact of culture and cultural inhibitors on a lean transformation.
- Be able to develop strategies for building a critical mass of lean change agents within your organization.
- Be able to engage others and gain commitment for the lean journey more effectively up, down, and across the organizational chart.
- Gain greater leverage and sustainability by employing daily coaching and delegating skills in support of lean principles and practices.
- Establish an overall framework for the continuous evaluation and improvement of your own lean leadership capabilities.
Number of Modules: 5
Approximate run time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Lean Career Accelerator
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- Learn how to leverage your Lean training to advance your career
- Gain insider insights on landing leadership roles in Operations, Supply Chain, and beyond
- Master strategies for navigating corporate structures and driving impactful change
- Learn how to negotiate more than what you’re worth with 90% of leaders
🎯 Take the next step in your career today! Gain access to expert mentorship, interactive lessons, and exclusive Lean opportunities.
Lean Kaizen Improvement Workshop1 hour, 15minutes
This course will examine the Lean Kaizen Improvement workshop. Do you have a baseline knowledge of what lean is and want to get right to work with improving a process? The Lean Kaizen Improvement Workshop will take you through the step-by-step process of an improvement Kaizen. Through this course, learners will:
- Identify the types of projects that are suited for an improvement Kaizen
- Explore the 9-Step process of an Improvement Kaizen
Number of Modules: 1
Approximate run time: 1 hour, 15minutes
Lean Transformation Roadmap21 minutes
This course will provide an overview of the Lean Kaizen Transformation Roadmap. We will explore the four strategic pillars needed for a successful transformation and describe the characteristics within each of the 5 phases of the roadmap.
Number of Modules: 1
Approximate run time: 21 minutes
Operating System16 minutes
This course takes a deep look at the Operating System as a tool to enhance high agreement of organizational goals, visions, and values as well as the tools and systems with which to support work functions within an organization. Through this course, learners will:
- Explore the definition and the critical factors of an Operating System
- Identify benefits of using an Operating System
- Explore how to use an Operating System
Number of Modules: 1
Approximate run time: 16 minutes
RACI Chart25 minutes
This course takes a deep look at the RACI Chart as a structured planning tool to create high agreement on the roles and responsibilities of a project. Through this course, learners will:
- Explore the structure of the RACI Chart
- Identify benefits of using a RACI Chart during the planning phase of a project
- Explore the components and step in building a RACI Chart
Number of Modules: 1
Approximate run time: 25 minutes
Standard Work Instructions40 minutes
Provides an overview of the role of standard work instructions to support the completion of work. This course provides learners with:
- The benefits of utilizing standard work instructions to promote consistency
- A template structure for developing standard work instructions that include critical information for work completion
Number of modules: 1
Approximate run time: 40 minutes
The After Action Review30 minutes
Presents the After Action Review as a structured and efficient methodology for reviewing any continuous improvement efforts, regardless of their size or complexity. This course focuses on the importance of promoting daily learning throughout an organization to move closer to the ideal state using a simple and easy structure.
Number of modules: 1
Approximate run time: 30 minutes
The SWOT Analysis25 minutes
This course takes a deep look at the SWOT Analysis as a structured and standardized method to assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and the threats to an organization . Through this course, learners will:
Explore the structure of the SWOT Analysis
Identify benefits of the SWOT Analysis
Review the steps of a SWOT Analysis
Identify the factors to consider when conducting a SWOT Analysis
Number of Modules: 1
Approximate run time: 25 minutes
Value Stream Mapping & Improvement60 minutes
This course will provide an overview of the Value Stream Mapping & Improvement process. Throughout this two part course course, we will be exploring how to examine and improve the flow of material and information throughout the organization. We will learn how to build and analyze a value stream using a unique methodology that will structure your improvement efforts.
Number of Modules: 2
Approximate run time: 60 minutes
Visual Management80 minutes
Provides an overview of visual management techniques and their ability to visually indicate abnormalities at-a-glance. Through this course, learners will:
- Identify the difference between visual displays and controls
- Explore different levels of visual displays and their everyday presence to align the actions and behaviors of others
- Identify different levels of visual controls and their everyday presence to promote safety by preventing accidents and injuries
Number of modules: 4
Approximate run time: 80 minutes
Waste Walk30 minutes
Provides an overview of the Waste Walk as a structured process for seeking out waste in processes. Through this course, learners will:
- Analyze the product-process map to determine the presence of waste within work processes
- Utilize a structure for identifying and documenting waste opportunities within work processes
Number of modules: 1
Approximate run time: 30 minutes
Welcome to Lean Learning Center Online Education
Our learning experience is designed to help you build practical Lean knowledge and apply it to real-world work. Courses combine structured learning, interactive experiences, and progressive certification pathways to help you strengthen your skills as you advance.
For AI-guided courses, your Lean Instructor will guide you step by step, check your understanding, provide additional support when needed, and help you apply each concept before you advance. Your progress is saved through your account so you can return and continue your learning journey.
Navigating the Online Education System
Getting Started:
Your learning journey is simple. Follow these four steps to access your courses and continue your progress.
Managing Your Account:
Need to update your profile or password? Access your account through Your Courses, then open your profile or account details to make changes.
Returning to Your Learning:
Already started a course? Select Your Courses from the navigation menu to return to your available courses. Your saved progress allows you to continue your learning from where you left off.
Tips for a Successful Learning Experience
For the best online learning experience:
- Use a current version of Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Safari, or Firefox.
- Make sure you have a stable internet connection before beginning a lesson.
- Complete AI-guided lessons in order so your progress and learning experience remain consistent.
- Take time to answer the Lean Instructor’s questions thoughtfully. If you are unsure or confused, say so — the instructor can provide additional guidance before you continue.
- Avoid closing or refreshing your browser while a response is actively being processed.
Learning Solutions for Organizations
Lean Learning Center works with organizations to provide flexible learning solutions for teams, leaders, and continuous improvement professionals. Options may include group course access, certification pathways, customized learning experiences, and additional Lean training support based on your organization’s needs.
Looking to bring Lean learning to your team? Contact us to discuss the right learning approach for your organization.