Coaching Kata
Toyota coaching routine for continuous improvement.
PURPOSE
Leaders often fall into the trap of solving problems themselves instead of developing the problem-solving capability of their team members. The Coaching Kata provides a repeatable routine that turns leaders into true coaches. It promotes continuous improvement through structured questioning instead of giving instructions.
HOW TO USE
In regular coaching cycles, the coach asks five core questions: What is the target condition? What is the current condition? What obstacles are in the way? What is the next step? When can we see what we have learned? Through repetition of this routine, both coach and coachee develop a scientific mindset.
WHAT IT IS
The Coaching Kata is a coaching routine developed by Mike Rother, based on the Toyota Production System. It consists of five core questions that are repeated in a fixed cycle and is designed as a complement to the Improvement Kata. The approach is designed to establish scientific thinking and continuous improvement as a daily habit.
EXAMPLE
Example: You are a department head in manufacturing and your shift leaders come to you directly with every problem instead of developing solutions themselves. You train yourself with the Coaching Kata and ask five questions at every problem discussion: What is the target condition? What is the current condition? What is blocking you? What is your next step? When do we check in?