Lean means creating more value for the customer with fewer resources. One handy way to remember what it covers:
| Letter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| S | Systematic approach to identifying |
| E | Eliminating waste |
| C | Continuous improvement |
| L | Lowest cost |
| B | Best quality |
| S | Short lead time |
Three kinds of activity
- Value added (VA): changes the form, shape or function of the product - sewing a seam, cutting a panel. The customer pays for this.
- Necessary non-value added (NNVA): the customer does not pay for it, but we cannot skip it today - bundle tying, inspection, moving cut panels.
- Pure waste: adds nothing and can be removed.
Necessary non-value-added work is reduced with ECRS:
| Step | Question to ask |
|---|---|
| Eliminate | Can we stop doing this completely? |
| Combine | Can two steps become one (e.g. trim while sewing)? |
| Re-arrange | Would a different order or place remove walking or waiting? |
| Simplify | Can a folder, guide or template make it easier? |