This year, 14 entrepreneurs from Vidzeme began enhancing their understanding of how to implement the LEAN approach in their companies to achieve the highest possible results while using minimal resources. Ten of the participants received individual consultations, meaning both company management and broader teams were introduced to LEAN practices. Companies gained training content and recommendations tailored to their specific situations, helping them improve efficiency, implement enhancements, and achieve their defined goals. The “LEAN Process Optimization Training” was organized under the Entrepreneurship in Vidzeme project by the Vidzeme Planning Region. Its goal is to strengthen the competitiveness and productivity of regional companies. Interest in the training exceeded expectations, and participant feedback confirmed its value: entrepreneurs often struggle to find time to review routine processes and identify areas for improvement that can lead to better results. 

 

As Normunds Brēmers, Board Member of SIA Wenden Furniture, noted: 

"After what I heard and have already applied in practice, I feel extremely inspired. Perhaps routine in daily processes, built over 27 years in the same industry, had quietly suppressed many processes essential for development. After the first lecture, I experienced an explosion of ideas. Implementing them directly in the company gave me extra energy to continue what was started." 

 

The training was delivered by Kaspars Savickis, a LEAN consultant and trainer from SIA “Komunikāciju darbnīca.” During the sessions, participants learned the fundamentals of LEAN, identified necessary improvements for their companies, set goals and expected results, and developed a clear plan to continue applying the acquired knowledge after the training concluded. All participants actively engaged in both theoretical lessons and practical exercises, which likely contributed to the high satisfaction levels reported. 

 

Juta Kandere, Quality Specialist at Defence Partnership Latvia, shared: 

"The training was interesting and effectively connected with practical real-life examples. It provided insight into simple tools for process improvement that can be applied in almost any company." Other participants echoed this sentiment, highlighting practical methods learned, objective evaluation of existing company processes, and additional benefits. 

 

Kristaps Purmalis, Production Manager at Mira Motion Latvia—recognized by Kaspars Savickis as close to excellence in LEAN implementation—recommends that all entrepreneurs participate, even if they feel they already know the material, as every session provides new ideas and insights to take back to their companies. 

 

Title image: 5S Stand at Mira Motion Latvia. 

 

Working Together for a Competitive Europe! 

 

The “LEAN Process Optimization Training” was conducted as part of the Vidzeme Planning Region project “Entrepreneurship Support Measures in the Vidzeme Planning Region.” The project is implemented under the Local Development, Poverty Reduction, and Cultural Cooperation Program, co-financed by Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway through the EEA Grants.