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Southern Sensei book by Mark Preston

About Us

Transforming Business Operations with Lean Expertise

Lean Applications brings decades of industry knowledge and hands-on experience to help companies optimize processes and achieve operational excellence.

who we are

35+ Years of Proven Industry Leadership

Lean Applications was founded in 2013 by Mark Preston, a Lean Six Sigma Master, author, and keynote speaker with over 35 years of experience. We specialize in helping businesses streamline their operations through the adoption of Lean methodologies, improving both efficiency and culture. Our mission is to guide companies toward operational excellence by providing practical, hands-on Lean and Six Sigma solutions.

Our Expertise

Proven Leadership, Unique Methodologies

With over 35 years of industry experience, we have worked with numerous renowned organizations such as Vitamix, Kohler, Chick-fil-A, Bath Fitter, Teijin Automotive, and Abbott Labs. Our services span across various industries, from manufacturing to supply chain optimization, helping businesses achieve their Lean goals. Mark Preston’s leadership and unique methodologies like Rattlesnake Hunts (5S on Steroids) and Standard Work Mapping have transformed numerous organizations.

yellow belt

Certified Yellow Belts

green belt

Certified Green Belts

black belt

Certified Black Belts

snakehunter app coming soon 12

What We Do

Driving Results Through Lean Solutions

At Lean Applications, we offer a wide range of services designed to support businesses on their Lean journey:

  • Lean Six Sigma Certification: We have certified over 3,500 Yellow Belts, 500+ Green Belts, and 50+ Black Belts.
  • Operational Excellence: Driving global deployments with multi-site P&L accountability and ROI improvements.
  • Strategic Planning & Deployment: Expertise in value stream mapping, standard work, and lean office implementation.
  • Supplier Development: Helping companies optimize their supply chains and improve sourcing strategies.
  • Leadership Training: Providing Lean Six Sigma leadership development, focusing on people-centric leadership and customer relationships.

Stay tuned for the release of Snakehunter. Eliminating waste has never been this fun!

 

 

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A visionary in Lean methodology

Meet Our Founder: Mark Preston

Mark Preston is a trailblazer in the world of Lean manufacturing, whose expertise has reshaped operations for some of the most recognized global organizations. Beginning his Lean journey at TDK Electronics, Mark was trained in Japan on the foundational principles of Lean, directly from its source. His hands-on experience spans leadership roles at Respironics/Phillips and Acuity Brands Lighting, where he spearheaded multi-site Lean deployments and fostered operational excellence across international teams.

Mark's visionary approach extends beyond corporate leadership. As the creator of the AME Lean Sensei Assessment, he has empowered countless organizations to assess and improve their Lean practices. He is also the author of Southern Sensei, a thought-provoking book on leadership and Lean (available on Amazon). A sought-after keynote speaker, Mark has delivered insightful presentations at industry-leading events such as AME, YPO, and APICS, sharing his deep knowledge and passion for continuous improvement.

Why Choose Lean Applications?

Our unique approach, built on years of experience and innovation, sets us apart from other Lean consulting firms. We don’t just implement solutions—we inspire change and empower teams to sustain long-term improvement. Whether you're looking to enhance your supply chain, improve production efficiency, or elevate your leadership team, Lean Applications has the expertise to guide your transformation.

 

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