Five Steps to Perfection: Implementing Lean

What are the five fundamental steps of lean?

• Specify value: define value from the customer's perspective. Express this in terms of a specific product or service that meets the customer's needs.
• Map: use value stream mapping to map the value delivery process. Identify all of the steps required to provide value to the customer and eliminate obvious inefficiencies.
• Facilitate flow: eliminate barriers so that value flows directly to customers. Redefine organizational goals so that it becomes in everyone's interests to make value flow.
• Establish pull: empower customers to pull value on an as-needed basis. Make only what customers want when they want it.
• Enable perfection: improve value delivery continuously by repeating the first four steps regularly. Strive for an ideal balance between process waste elimination and value delivery to customers.

Overview/Description

All types of organizations can use lean to become more efficient. This impact explores lean implementation in both manufacturing and non-manufacturing settings.

Target Audience

Any individuals interested in gaining an understanding of the principles of Lean.