Training Within Industry (TWI) is a series of training programs developed by the U.S. government during World War II. The main goal was to enable American companies to efficiently train large numbers of inexperienced employees in a short period of time to replace the millions who served in the military. The programs focused on improving the skills of supervisors and management to increase productivity and quality while reducing waste.

The TWI methodology consists of three core programs, collectively known as the "J programs.

Job Instruction:
This program trains supervisors and experienced employees in effectively instructing new employees. The goal is to teach workers how to perform their jobs with fewer errors, less downtime, less repair work, fewer accidents and less damage to tools and equipment. The method is based on a four-step plan:
1. Prepare
2. Present
3. Trying
4. Follow up

Job Methods:
This program teaches employees how to methodically improve their work. It focuses on optimizing the use of people, machines and materials to deliver more quality products in less time. This is achieved by simplifying processes and eliminating unnecessary steps.

Job Relations: This program trains supervisors in dealing effectively with human problems in the workplace. It teaches them how to gather facts, weigh them, make decisions, take action and monitor results. This promotes fair and equitable working relationships and contributes to a positive work environment.

Although TWI programs fell into oblivion in the postwar prosperity in the United States, they were welcomed with open arms in war-stricken Japan. Lower-performing companies, including Toyota, adopted the concepts and integrated them into their own production system (TPS). In particular, the Job Instruction program became the basis for the training approach of Toyota leaders worldwide.

Since the turn of the century, TWI programs have been experiencing a global resurgence. More and more organizations are seeing the value of these fundamental, practical training methods to strengthen leadership and continuous improvement in the workplace.

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