A3s evolved from the Toyota Production System in the early 1960s as a simple, concise method for process improvement. The designation “A3” stands for the international size of the paper (11” x 17”) used to capture all the important information for easy understanding and decision making. The key element is not the form itself but the thinking that goes into the problem analysis and resolution practice. Common uses for A3s include: problem solving, proposals, project status and even value stream maps or hoshin planning.