Lean production Flashcards
What is lean production
A collection of industrial methods that aim to reduce waste in a business
What are the types of waste in production
- Excess raw materials
- Idle work in progress
- Unsold stock
- Skills and knowledge of the workforce
What are the components of lean production
- Kaizen
- Just-in-time
- Cell production
- Time based management methods
What is kaizen
Focusing on small frequent improvements in the production process (Kaizen groups can be formed to discuss improvements)
What is Just in Time
Business doesn’t keep stock and goods are ordered when they are needed
What are the requirements of J.I.T
- Supplier communication
- Reliable and flexible employees
- Reliable equipment
Evaluate J.I.T production
Pros:
- Lower stock holding costs
- Less working capital required
- Less obsolete stock
- Increased motivation
Cons:
- Little room for error
- Supplier reliance
- Demand shifts impact production
- Delays are critical
- Complex systems
What is cell production
Production is divided into different stations
What is time based management?
Effective use of time within production to limit cost and waste
What are the benefits of lean production
- Increased productivity
- Higher motivation
- Increased participation
- Reduced waste and stock holding
- Greater quality
What are the Limitations of lean production
- Reduces EoS potential
- Needs all staff to be on time
- May not meet demand
- Relies on strong supply chain
What are the differences between Lean and Mass production
- Lead times
- Stock levels
- Quality assurance vs control
- Employee responsibility
- Employee skill set
- Communication level
- Number of suppliers
