“Seeing To Understand – Your Scientific Thinking Lifestyle Coach,” by Panos Efsta, is a tremendously innovative book.
I should say at the outset that I read the Healthcare version. I did not know that there was also a different edition that carries examples from a manufacturing environment. As I currently work in manufacturing, I may well have chosen this version, but, I think it is useful to see that the scientific method works well in any industry. Mr Efsta is an engaging and knowledgeable guide.
Mr Efsta styles this book as a “Scientific Thinking Lifestyle Coach.” As such, it is not incongruous that the author prompts the reader towards other books, particularly on the topic of Kata and Data analysis. Such is the function of the coach – inspiring, rather than instructing. The knowledge you need is already within you.
I found the structure of the book, and by extension, the thinking to be very clear and innovative. Mr Efsta creates a template that is both repeatable and reproducible – though it is one that can only be ingrained through continued practice and supportive coaching.
I found the Process Behaviour Charts to be illuminating, and a lot easier to derive than the more traditional Statistical Process Control Methods.
In addition, the combination of TWI methods with KATA and data studies felt fresh, and I have not seen it presented in such a way before. While I have used Job Instruction, I was less familiar with Job Methods and Job Relations. Mr Efsta certainly made me look at TWI afresh.
This book is well written and communicates the author’s expertise and joy of the subject in a manner which makes the piece exceptionally easy to read and highly engaging.
“Seeing To Understand” is a book that should be purchased in the paper version, as it is not one which should remain pristine. It should become weathered and covered in pencil notations. It is, after all, a coach. It is not a manual or a textbook. In this sense, Mr Efsta has succeeded in his purpose.
I will leave you with a quote from the author himself:
“Scientific thinking is about infusing your eco-system with a new way of understanding things and a different approach to innovation.”
It is the phrase “eco-system” that I like here. A workplace is a delicate eco-system. The scientific method of removing obstacles to optimum performance is one that should permeate deep into the roots of your organisation. It is not knowledge to be held and guarded by a cadre of experts. “Seeing to Understand” would serve as a superb starting point on this journey.
I thoroughly recommend engaging with Mr Efsta and this book. A worthy five-star rating.
To order a paperback version, with Healthcare examples, please follow this link.
To order a paperback version, with Manufacturing examples, please follow this link.
Simon Gary is the author of “Kaizen Your Life”, a book that explores how you can apply the techniques of the Japanese Masters to your everyday living. Links available via the shop.