A popular tool used in Lean businesses is a tool called Kanban, a Japanese word meaning sign. It is used in the just-in-time system of production as a means of regulation. In terms of manufacturing, a Kanban system usually uses a bin and card system that triggers a certain action. For instance, the production line may not start production on a new product until the visual cue is sent from the sales department. This is to combat overproduction and avoid excess inventory.
This video was produced by the Gemba Academy and introduces Kanban cards and the Kanban system and how to implement it in a manufacturing environment. This is a great starter video if you’re new to Lean manufacturing or the concept of Kanban.
Additional Resources
- Kaizen and Lean Manufacturing– creativesafetysupply.com
- What is Kanban?– kanbanforum.com
- Understanding Kanban vs. SCRUM– whatisengineering.org
- The Tools of Lean– leanworkplace.com
- Gemba – A Powerful Piece of your Lean Toolbox– infographicsdirectory.org
- The Role of Kaizen in Lean Manufacturing– kaizensystem.net
- What is Gemba Kaizen?– kaizenforums.com
- Is 5S just for manufacturing?– 5sforum.com