"The stated ideologies of service companies that have consistently performed extremely well have a strong focus on flowing value to the customer. The customer service theme from these companies resonates with lean thinking philosophy: (1) Service to the customer above all else. We exist to provide value to our customers-to make their lives better via lower prices and greater selection; all else is secondary (2) People are number one they are your only appreciating asset, treat them well, expect a lot, and the rest will follow (3) Partner with employees, include them in the process (4) Encourage individual initiative (5) Expect hard work and productivity, yet keep it fun (6) Work with passion, commitment, and enthusiasm (7) Continuous self-improvement; there's always something more to be improved (8) Excellence in reputation (9) Run lean by continuously identifying and eliminating waste (10) Never settle for less than what is possible". (Buckentine, "Lean for Service Businesses," MA Insider [Manufacturers Alliance E-Newsletter], May 2007)