Lean

Last updated Jun 5, 2023

Originated in the manufacturing world.

The main principle is the removal of waste in an operation. By optimizing steps and eliminating waste, the only value is added at each phase of production.

Types of waste within an operation

• defects,
• excess processing,
• overproduction,
• waiting,
• inventory,
• transportation,
• motion,
• utilized talent.

The 5S method includes these five steps:

• Sort: Remove all items not needed for current production operations and leave only the bare essentials.
• Set in order: Arrange needed items so that they are easy to use. Label items so that anyone can find them or put them away.
• Shine: Keep everything in the correct place. Clean your workspace every day.
• Standardize: Perform the process, in the same way, every time.
• Sustain: Make a habit of maintaining correct procedures and instill this discipline in your team.

Utilize Kanban scheduling:

• A visualization tool that enables the optimization of the workflow.

• Define values
• Map value stream
• Create flow
• Establish pull
• Pursue perfection

Identify and focus on what the customer wants and include the customer in the process.

Map out the steps to production and challenge all wasted steps.

Ensure the product flows through the value stream efficiently, eliminating waste throughout the cycle.

Ensure the customer is “pulling” on the product through this stream by asking for features and incremental deliveries.

Push the team to continuously improve the first four process steps.