Makoto's Story
Makoto aims to do more than just consulting - we want to provide your business with the tools that it needs to thrive.
Our Mission:
At Makoto, we don't just solve problems - we move people.
Our unique approach to lean consulting and kaizen in Japan enables us to serve overseas businesses located in Japan in a way that no one else offers.
Makoto's mission is to help transform businesses by giving them lasting cultural change.
Founding & Early Days
In 1998, Brad Schmidt co-founded the company under the name Gemba Research, Ltd. in Seattle, USA.
By 2003 Gemba Research was making Lean Strategy business plans for multi-national companies.
In 2006, Brad Schmidt established Gemba Research, Inc. in Tokyo.
Kaizen Program and JLE
In 2008, we started our Weekend Office Kaizen Program, and the following year we celebrated our 100th Japan Lean Experience tour. (We were even featured on Japan's national TV (NHK) in 201nce tours!)
The following year we set up a Top Line Lean Sales Program.
Founding & Early Days
In 1998, Brad Schmidt co-founded the company under the name Gemba Research, Ltd. in Seattle, USA.
By 2003 Gemba Research was making Lean Strategy business plans for multi-national companies.
In 2006, Brad Schmidt established Gemba Research, Inc. in Tokyo.
What Does "Makoto" Mean?
"Makoto" is a Japanese word meaning "truth", "trust" and "sincerity". The word "Makoto" reflects our mission and our determination to offer only sincere services to our clients.
誠 (sincerity) - People need to know you are sincere and that you see potential in them and the Lean improvement effort. If you have their best in mind, then it is quite easy to get buy-in.
真 (truth) - One of the most important concepts is to know the truth and show the truth whether that be in a visual form or just by sharing information. Without knowing the truth, the team's performance will not improve and the team cannot make the right decisions.
信 (trust) - We believe in the potential of people which is why we invest in training, knowledge sharing and in giving people the time and authority to make changes. We believe in their creativity and capacity to improve your business.