Lean Production

What does Lean Production aim to achieve?

Producing goods and services with the minimum of wasted resources while maintaining high quality.

What are the types of waste in Lean Production represented by the acronym TOWMD?

Transport, Overproduction, Overprocessing, Waiting, Movement, Defects.

What is the purpose of simultaneous engineering?

To organize product development so that different stages are done at the same time rather than in sequence.

What is cell production?

Splitting flow production into self-contained groups (cells) that are responsible for whole work units.

What benefits does flexible production techniques provide?

Quicker response to changes in consumer demand, wider range of products, reduced inventory, higher productivity.

What does Time-Based Management focus on?

Cuts out waste time in management.

What is Just-in-Time (JIT) inventory?

Involves fewer resources being tied up in buffer inventories.

What does Kaizen refer to?

Continuous improvement where all workers contribute to improving business operations.

What are some limitations of Lean Production?

Some changes may require radical solutions, resistance from senior managers, and tangible costs in the short run.

What is quality in the context of production?

A product that meets customer expectations.

What are the two types of quality processes mentioned?

Quality assurance and quality control.

What is Total Quality Management (TQM)?

An approach that involves all employees in quality-improvement and aims for a zero defects policy.

How can organizations achieve quality assurance?

By setting agreed quality standards at every stage of production and emphasizing prevention.

Why is it important for businesses to establish quality-assurance systems?

Involves staff, reduces costs, and can gain accreditation for quality awards.

What is a potential disadvantage of quality inspection?

It can create a negative culture, resentment among workers, and might take away responsibility for quality.

How can TQM act as a motivator for employees?

By increasing worker participation and delegation of responsibility.