Lean Manufacturing Implementing

Lean Manufacturing ImplementingImplementing the Lean Manufacturing StrategyBefore we discuss how to implement the muchdiscussed corporate planning strategy known aslean manufacturing, let us first define what itis.Lean manufacturing is a combination of approachesthat, when put together, aims to eliminate the allthe common practices that are seen as whollyunnecessary and time-consuming. Such are calledwastes, like overproduction, long waiting times,transportation and constant motion, which notonly eat up precious time but are also a drag onresources, energy and expenses.

Simply put, implementing lean manufacturing hasthe reduction of costs in mind. And this is done,ironically, by first making sacrifices on thestrategies that have been in effect in manycompanies for decades now.Sound like a dangerous plan? Some companiesbelieve it is, but when you really look at its longterm benefits, you will find that implementinglean manufacturing will bring greater value toyour company than the processes that have alreadybeen ingrained. After all, change is often for thebetter. You just have to open your eyes andwelcome it.Implementing the lean manufacturing program isbest for companies that have output andproduction as their primary source of revenue.Such companies place a prime on maximizing alltheir human and tool resources in order to achievetheir target output levels without having to

spend too much.This is where the principles of leanmanufacturing are most helpful.Prevailing economic conditions often leavecompanies scampering for clients. Growingcompetition are forcing producers to lower theircharges just to be able to get ahead, that's whysuch firms are looking for novel ways to lowertheir production costs and increase turnaroundtimes. When firms need to boost efficiencies andgenerate revenue, lean manufacturing is oftenwhat is implemented.Implementing lean manufacturing techniques hasbeen found effective in the survival and successof a company or an organization. This is becauseof the 'elimination of seven wastes' philosophythis program espouses.For a shorter version, what lean manufacturing

aims to teach is the on time, at the right timeand at the right quantity approach to production.For instance, producing too much that what isneeded is often detrimental to a company. Sure,it shows that targets have not only been achieved,but grossly surpassed. But this does not alwaysentail success.Implementing lean manufacturing systems meansthat there should no waste. That is, nounnecessary stockpiles that could just sit atwarehouses and left to rot. If you produce morethan intended, this is what will likely happen toyour inventory.You'll take up warehouse space and see theproducts get worn by time. If you're lucky, you'llbe able to dispose of the excesses, but they won'tlikely be sold at their original price because,well, they'll be considered old stocks oroverruns.

Before you plan to implement lean manufacturingstrategies, it's best to be prepared. Critics arenot kidding when they say that lean manufacturingis somewhat tricky, because the preliminarypreparations can, indeed, deter you from pushingthrough.However, consider the long term gains you willobtain from this system. If you list pros and cons,you will find that the benefits willsignificantly outweigh the tedious preparationsand planning by a long shot. Once you've laid downwhat needs to be changed and what needs to beeliminated, implementing should be a piece ofcake.Good luck!