Lean manufacturing originated from Japan, and therefore the idea was based on eliminating ‘muda’ (futility, uselessness, wastefulness) from your business.

This essentially means that the worth of your products is increased thanks to it being made strictly for the customers’ requirements, while you’re business is also better placed to make savings and operate more efficiently.

Those who practice lean manufacturing will look to reduce waste from their business by examining the 7 sorts of ‘mudas’: 

1. Transport 

Moving products costs money and adds no real value. 

2. Inventory 

Products take up space, got to be moved and may become damaged. 

3. Motion 

Getting to work or moving equipment around wastes time. 

4. Waiting 

Waiting for repairs or expecting a delivery of product or material is not ideal.

5. Overproduction 

Making an excessive amount of product. 

6. Over-processing 

Using a machine or methods that takes longer and doesn’t add more value. 

7. Defects 

Products that are replaced, repaired or, worse, recalled. 

For you to realise and reap the rewards of lean manufacturing, the thought is that you simply view your production from the purpose of view of the buyer. Think about what’s necessary!