An Introduction to the Lean Concept of Catchball

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Most of us have memories of playing the game of catch either as
children or with our children. I really shouldn’t call it a
“game” because there are no winners and losers. There is no
defense because everyone is on the same side. One participant
tries to deliver the ball to the other in a way that they will be
able to grab and return it. The ability to catch and throw a ball
is important because it is a foundation for success in many
other, more complex sports. The Lean idea of catchball
involves moving ideas and information from one person or team to
another and, much like catch from childhood, it forms the basis
for complicated decision-making and policy development.