Masaaki Imai
今井 正明
Masaaki Imai’s work revolutionized the business world, inspiring change for the better and leaving a lasting global impact.
Masaaki Imai
LEGACY
Masaaki Imai dedicated his life to transforming the way the world thinks about work. Through his advocacy for continuous, people-driven improvement, he brought the Japanese KAIZEN™ philosophy to a global audience. At a time when efficiency was often equated with rigid control, he emphasized the value of empowering individuals at every level of an organization.
“KAI” means change, and “ZEN” means for the better, together “Change for the Better”. KAIZEN™ refers to a philosophy or practices that focus upon Continuous Improvement regardless of the type of business or process. Masaaki Imai acknowledged that KAIZEN™ starts with the detection of needs and problem definition:

“The starting point for improvement is to recognize the need.” This comes from the recognition of a problem. Where no problem is recognized, there is no recognition of the need for improvement.
Masaaki Imai’s true legacy lies in the lasting cultural shift he inspired – one where Continuous Improvement is not a tactic, but a way of life. His principles remain more relevant than ever in a world facing complex challenges. As organizations seek new ways to remain competitive, resilient, and socially responsible, Masaaki Imai’s vision continues to offer a clear path forward.
BIOGRAPHY
„The KAIZEN™ Philosophy assumes that our way of life – be it our working life, or our home life – deserves to be constantly improved.”
Masaaki Imai, Founder of Kaizen Institute
VIDEOS
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Definition of KAIZEN™
PUBLICATIONS
Books
1/3
Kaizen
This book introduces the unique Japanese concept of KAIZEN™—which means “Change for the Better”—for the first time to a global audience.
Available on Amazon
Gemba Kaizen
This book proved to be even more influential than the original. It contains over 20 case studies from companies worldwide that had adopted KAIZEN™.
Available on Amazon
Strategic KAIZEN™
In this book, the flow concept is adopted as one of the highest pillars of the Lean production system.
Available on Amazon
“Change for the better doesn’t happen overnight, as it takes discipline and sacrifice to change the culture that has been formed over many years.”
Masaaki Imai, Founder of Kaizen Institute
GLOBAL IMPACT
Podcasts
2/2
Aleix Borrego
Managing Director, Kaizen Institute Poland
António Costa
CEO, Kaizen Institute, Ltd.
Interviews
1/2
Yukio Kakiuchi
Consultant
Reels
1/1
Edgar Hoyos
Managing Director, Kaizen Institute Colombia
DISTINCTION AWARD
Masaaki Imai Distinction Award 2025
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