The Shingo Prize for Excellence in Manufacturing is named for Japanese industrial engineer Shigeo Shingo who distinguished himself as one of the world's leading experts in improving manufacturing processes. Dr. Shingo has been described as an "engineering genius" who helped create and write about many aspects of the revolutionary manufacturing practices which comprise the renowned Toyota Production System.

The Prize was established in 1988 to promote awareness of Lean manufacturing concepts and recognize companies in the United States , Canada , and Mexico that achieve world-class manufacturing status. The Shingo Prize philosophy is that world-class business performance may be achieved through focused improvements in core manufacturing and business processes.

The Shingo Prize recognizes organizations and research that is consistent with its mission and model with two types of prizes:

• Business Prize-promotes use of world-class manufacturing strategies and practices to achieve world-class results.
• Research Prize - promotes research and writing regarding new knowledge and understanding of manufacturing processes.

Recipients of the Business and Research Prize are honored at the Shingo Prize Annual Conference. The Shingo Prize is directed by the Board of Governors who are leading representatives of businesses, professional organizations, and academic institutions. Dr. Ross Robson has been the Director of the Shingo prize during its 16 year history.