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Nemawashi: Build Credibility the Japanese Way

 

Breaking into Japanese OEMs is never easy, and that is intentional. Their expectations protect long-term quality, trust, and relationships.

The same methods that make Toyota, Honda, and others so selective also make their suppliers world-class.

TKD² helps U.S. manufacturers apply those same principles, turning audit anxiety into readiness, confidence, and flow.

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Production System Readiness (TPS, QAV, and Beyond)

Japanese production systems are more than lean tools. They are a mindset built on respect for people, precision, and continuous improvement.

TKD² works side by side with your teams to align operations, quality, and culture with the standards that win business from Japanese OEMs and strengthen performance with any customer.

How We Help You Get Audit Ready

  • Gap assessment against Toyota, Honda, or other customer standards
  • Implementation of pull systems, kanban, andon, and visual controls
  • Standardized work, flow optimization, and kaizen coaching
  • On-floor mentoring for “go see, fix it” problem solving
  • Integration with IATF, ISO, or VDA quality systems
  • Pre-audit simulations and corrective action planning

Why It Matters:

Whether you are targeting Toyota, Honda, or a domestic OEM, credibility starts with predictable flow, zero-defect thinking, and disciplined daily management.

Customers quickly recognize when your team understands and practices TPS principles.

Case Study

TKD² recently supported a North American supplier preparing for Japanese OEM audits by aligning production systems, visual management, and plant-level processes with customer expectations. 

This engagement strengthened operational discipline, audit readiness, and problem-solving culture across multiple departments.

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Why TKD²?

Our team combines real plant experience with a deep understanding of Japanese production philosophy.

We work directly with your operators and supervisors to build practical systems that sustain improvement.

The result is fewer surprises in audits, smoother launches, and stronger customer relationships.