How Does Lean Manufacturing Work? 5 Core Principles to Focus On

Lean manufacturing, a term you might have heard buzzing around in the industry, has transformed how businesses operate. Born from the production floors of Toyota in the mid-20th century, lean manufacturing is all about creating more value with fewer resources. But how does it really work? Let's dive into the essence of lean manufacturing and explore its five core principles. Understanding Lean Manufacturing Before we delve into the principles, it's crucial to grasp what lean manufacturing is. At its heart, lean manufacturing aims to eliminate waste, streamline processes, and ensure that every step adds value to the final product. It's not just about cutting costs but enhancing overall efficiency and improving quality. Now, onto the five guiding principles: 1. Value from the Customer's Perspective Everything in lean manufacturing orbits around the customer. The first step is to understand what the customer values. This isn't just about price, but about the entire ex...