lean production Flashcards
What is the impact of technological change on businesses?
- Reduces the need for frequent machine maintenance.
- Reduces waste
- Reduces staffing needs .
- Requires re-training for new skills.
- Lowers employment costs due to automation.
What is Lean Production (Kaizen)?
Lean production focuses on reducing waste and improving productivity by continuously improving all parts of the production process
How does technological change affect customers
- Provides customers with a wider choice of products (e.g., electronics, cameras).
- Improves speed and quality of communications.
- Results in existing products becoming obsolete more quickly.
What are examples of waste in Lean Production?
- Unused raw materials.
- Work in progress waiting to be finished.
- Finished products waiting to be delivered.
- Underused employee skills and knowledge.
What are the main components of Lean Production systems?
Just-in-time (JIT).
Kaizen (continuous improvement).
Cell production.
Time-based management.
What are the benefits of Lean Production?
- Increases productivity.
- Reduces costs and the number of defective products.
- Shortens lead times.
- Improves reliability.
- Allows for quicker new product design.
- Reduces waste.
What is Just-in-Time (JIT) production?
JIT is a system where materials and products are only made or delivered when there is actual demand, reducing stock levels and costs.
What are the advantages of Just-in-Time (JIT)?
- Improves cash flow by holding less stock.
- Reduces waste from obsolete or damaged stock.
- Frees up factory space for productivity.
- Improves supplier relationships and motivation for workers.
What are the disadvantages of Just-in-Time (JIT)?
- High dependency on reliable suppliers.
- less economies of scale
- Difficulty handling sharp demand increases.
- Damage to reputation if deliveries are late.
- Extra pressure on staff responsibility.
What is the definition of Kaizen
Businesses take the view that one of the main objectives of their existence is to be continually making small incremental steps in the improvement of quality, design, and waste reduction.
What is the main working element of Kaizen?
The use of kaizen groups, which are workers that meet regularly to discuss problems and suggest improvements.
List two benefits of using Kaizen.
- Improved labour relations.
- Increased productivity
What is Cell Production?
A production line system divided into a number of cells, which are groups of workers involved in related tasks.
What are two benefits of Cell Production?
- Job rotation allows workers to fulfil various tasks.
- Workers can play a role in improving quality and flexibility.
Define Time-Based Management
An approach where time is regarded as a key business resource, focusing on reducing production times to add value.
