Lean
What is Lean and how does it differ from Six Sigma?
What is Lean?
Lean is a set of principles for efficient and effective processes.
Lean has traditionally been an assembly-line manufacturing methodology developed originally for Toyota
It has been described as getting the right things to the right place at the right time, (the first time), while minimizing waste and being open to change.
Eliminating waste is another principle along with improved product flow.
Lean can help reduce system response time so that a production system is capable of immediately changing and adapting to market demands in order to satisfy the customer.
The principles of lean production can enable companies to deliver on demand, minimize inventory, maximize the use of multi-skilled employees, flatten the management structure, and focus resources where they were needed.
Familiar rules in lean production are
- Eliminate waste
- Minimize inventory
- Maximize flow
- Pull production from customer demand
- Meet customer requirements
- Do it right the first time
- Empower workers
- Design for rapid changeover
- Partner with suppliers
- Create a culture of continuous improvement
How does it differ from Six Sigma?
Six Sigma is a methodology or a problem-solving approach which addresses specific issues and improvement needs through the creation of a defined charter and strict management of the team to achieve the charter's objectives -within a well defined scope to deliver whatever the end customer requires.