This course introduces the Help Chain / ANDON—a real-time system for identifying, signaling, and responding to abnormalities in any environment. You’ll explore how ANDON serves as the trigger for action, creating visibility and accountability across roles. When effectively designed and used, Help Chain systems reduce defects, improve flow, and promote a culture of immediate response and continuous improvement.

You’ll also examine system design strategies, leadership behaviors, and integration with other Lean tools to ensure lasting success across both manufacturing and administrative settings.

After completing this course, you will be able to:

• Understand the purpose and value of Help Chain / ANDON systems
• Identify key components and roles that support effective use
• Apply design and response principles for sustained success
• Promote a culture of real-time action and accountability
• Link ANDON to other Lean tools for Continuous Improvement

Introduction – Help Chain / ANDON Overview

• Welcome, Learning Objectives, and Course Overview
• What is the Help Chain?
• What is ANDON?
• Key Components of a Help Chain
• Knowledge Check

Module 1 – Benefits & Principles of Effective Use

• L1 – Why Use Help Chain / ANDON?
• L2 – Principles for Success
• L3 – Case Studies for Manufacturing & Office Environments
• Knowledge Check
• Applied Learning Activity

Module 2 – Design and Implementation Strategies

• L1 – System Design for Any Environment
• L2 – Launch Planning and Implementation Strategy
• L3 – Monitoring & Improving Over Time
• Knowledge Check
• Applied Learning Activity

Module 3 – Using the System Effectively

• L1 – Creating a Culture of Response
• L2 – Roles and Responsibilities at Each Level
• L3 – Responding to Signals in Real Time
• L4 – Connecting with Other Lean Tools
• Knowledge Check
• Applied Learning Activity

Conclusion – Putting It All Together

• Review and Key Takeaways
• Common Failure Modes
• Personal Action Plan

Downloads

• Course Guide [PDF]
• Applied Learning Activities [PDF]

Online Course Format:

• A printable PDF Course Guide is provided.
• Course content is broken up into a series of modules.
• Each module consists of "bite sized" instructor-led lessons.
• Each module has a Knowledge Check.
• Each module has an Applied Learning Activity.
• Each course has a dashboard % completion that tracks progress

Webinars and email:

• Multiple monthly webinars addressing student questions.
• Support available through instructor email.

• The course certificate is earned through completion of all instructional Modules, Knowledge Checks, and Applied Learning Activities.
• Applied Learning Activities must be completed with supervisor/mentor comments and signature.
• Upon course content completion and approval of Applied Learning Activities, an electronic certificate is issued.
• Professionally printed and framed certificates available.