Posts Tagged ‘lean’
Lean Waste #7: Motion
Now, of course I don’t mean getting your steps in but I do mean unnecessary walking around, driving around, etc. to get your job done. One of the things I’ve done in my lean journey is a “spaghetti map” of an office or branch. It’s simple. Just track when people get up and move to…
Read MoreLean Waste #4: Unused Talent
Years ago, when I was cutting my teeth on Total Quality Management (TQM, the predecessor to Lean) we would say, “With every pair of hands you get a free brain. Use it!” The reference was to talent hired in, mainly, manufacturing and logistics settings that were never asked their opinion or for input on how…
Read MoreLean Waste #3: Waiting
“Please take a seat,” they say. “The doctor will be right with you.” Lies. Lies! It’s all LIES! They will not be right with you. They’re overscheduled and behind and even though you showed up early, you will WAIT until they are ready to see you. What a waste of your time! All waiting is…
Read MoreLean Waste #2: Over Production
Inventory, whether it be produce, parts, food, or people ready to hire is waste. If you make or process more than you need it may seem wise but in reality, you’ve spent money on something you can use now. You may be able to use it next week or next year (if you’re not dealing…
Read MoreLean Waste #1: Defects
Any time we make a mistake—whether in crafting a product, updating the GL, filling an order, etc.—we either have to do it over or deliver to our customer something that isn’t right. The matrix of possible defects is huge. Wrong number. Wrong thing. Wrong data. Wrong food. Wrong answer. Wrong price. Wrong solution. Wrong fit.…
Read MoreThe 8 Wastes of Lean: Introduction
One of the people who taught me lean processes years ago defined lean as “the least way way to bring value to the customer.” Lean practitioners and would be/should be practitioners identify and eliminate waste; the Japanese word is “muda.” It’s that simple. According to lean teaching, there are 8 types of waste. They are…
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