WHAT IS LEAN THINKING ?
Lean describes a system of continuous improvement that focuses on eliminating all forms of waste through the implementation of appropriate techniques and best practices. Specifically, lean analyses and improves the flow of material / services and information through added value activities, resulting in improved operations effectiveness, staff involvement and customer satisfaction. Implementing Lean tools and techniques will enable business processes to be flexible and efficient.
The objective is to satisfy customer demand for a quality product or service at the right time and at a competitive price. This includes managing total costs and providing an acceptable return on investment to stakeholders.
Waste is anything that uses resources but does not add real value as determined by the customer.
Waste may be categorised into Machine/Equipment losses and Lean wastes.
The six major Machine Losses are as follows:
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The major Lean Wastes are as follows:
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In summary – a good definition of Lean incorporates the following:
- It is the ultimate end customer who specifies the value in an organisation
- Identify the value streams that are necessary to design, order and produce the product or service, including all paperwork and information.
- Make value flow without interruption, deviation, backflows, waiting or scrap.
- Make value flow at the pull rate of the market.
- Continually strive for perfection by relentlessly removing waste.
| The 5 "Foundation" elements | The "Pillars" of Lean Thinking |
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