The Toyota Way has been called "a system designed to provide the tools for people to continually improve their work" The 14 principles of The Toyota Way are organised in four sections:
- Long-term philosophy
- The right process will produce the right results
- Add value to the organisation by developing your people
- Continuously solving root problems drives organisational learning
The two focal points of the principles are continuous improvement and respect for people. The principles for continuous improvement include establishing a long-term vision, working on challenges, continual innovation, and going to the source of the issue or problem. The principles relating to respect for people include ways of building respect and teamwork.