What is Lean Production?

Lean production is a philosophy and a methodology for effectively and continuously improving and optimizing production processes. The goal of lean production is to minimize waste and increase value for the customer by eliminating all activities that do not create direct benefit for the customer.

The main principles of lean production are:

• Customer value: All activities must focus on creating value for the customer and eliminating waste.
• Flow: The workflow must be as even and smooth as possible, without delays and bottoms.
• Pull: Production must be controlled according to demand, so that only what is actually demanded by customers is produced.
• Continuous improvement: All employees must be committed to constantly improving and optimizing the processes.

Lean production uses a variety of tools and methods, such as kanban boards, 5S, SMED and daily management, to identify and eliminate waste and improve work flow. It is often used in industrial production, but can also be used in other areas such as the service sector and the public sector.