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A3 THINKING 
workshop

Think Deeply. Solve Effectively. Communicate Clearly.

Description

A3 Thinking is a hallmark of Lean leadership — a disciplined, structured approach to thinking, communicating, and driving continuous improvement.

 

Developed within Toyota, A3 Thinking helps leaders and teams reason logically, visualize problems clearly, and engage others through structured dialogue and collaboration.

This course introduces the mindset, process, and tool aspects of A3 Thinking, showing participants how to align stakeholders, coach teams, and make thinking visible across functions.


It blends the logic of PDCA-based problem solving with the communication and leadership skills essential for sustained improvement.

A3 Thinking Workshop
A3 Thinking Workshop
A3 Thinking Workshop
A3 Thinking Workshop

Who Should Attend

  • Business leaders, managers, and supervisors

  • Lean practitioners and continuous improvement professionals

  • Project leaders and facilitators of cross-functional teams

  • HRD and L&D professionals seeking to build structured thinking capability

  • Anyone responsible for problem-solving, alignment, or team coaching

Training Approach

This course is interactive and practice-oriented. Participants will:

  1. Analyze real-world case studies to connect theory with practice

  2. Work in teams to develop A3 reports addressing practical issues

  3. Receive coaching and feedback to refine logic, structure, and clarity

  4. Engage in peer learning and group discussions to build shared understanding

Learning Objectives

By the end of the program, participants will be able to:

 

  1. Understand the principles and significance of A3 Thinking in Lean and PDCA-based problem solving

  2. Apply the A3 framework as a structured communication and coaching tool

  3. Guide teams through logical reasoning, visual storytelling, and stakeholder alignment

  4. Cultivate disciplined habits of reflection, follow-up, and organizational learning

  5. Foster a culture of transparency, collaboration, and continuous improvement

Workshop Outline

Session 1: Introduction to A3 Thinking

  • Origins and purpose of A3 Thinking

  • The three dimensions: Mindset, Process, and Tool

  • “Making thinking visible” as a cornerstone of Lean culture

 

Session 2: The A3 Framework

  • PDCA logic and structured flow

  • The eight sections of the A3 Problem Solving report

  • How A3 promotes shared understanding, alignment, and learning

Session 3: Core Tools for A3 Thinking

  • 5W1H and 5W2H for defining and scoping issues

  • 5 Whys and Fishbone Diagram for root cause analysis

  • Pareto Chart for focusing on the few critical issues

  • Visual storytelling for clarity and persuasive communication

Session 4: Form & Style - Communicating with Impact

  • Designing clear, concise, and reader-friendly A3 reports

  • Common formatting mistakes and how to avoid them

  • Creating logical flow and visual hierarchy for engagement

 

Session 5: Embedding A3 Thinking in Daily Practice

  • Coaching and leading A3 teams

  • Using A3 for daily management and strategy deployment

  • Sustaining learning through feedback and reflection

Session 6: Practical Tips for Success

  • Reinforcing A3 habits through leadership example

  • Review cycles, mentoring, and continuous learning

  • Building a culture of problem-solving excellence

Award of Certificate

Certificate of Attendance will be issued to participants who have attended at least 75% of the workshop

Duration

1 day

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