Lean Manufacturing Continuous Improvement: Common Sense, not Rocket Science

How much money have we saved? How many people were laid off? One manager may argue that there are no savings generated from Lean manufacturing (Lean) activity unless you are reducing head count. Another manager may think the savings contribute to additional sales and profit, streamlined operations, and additional investment in the company's future. There is also the human element where people may enjoy a boost in morale. Which is it? Who is right?

The real secret with Lean/CI is to strive for perfection through using the proper tools at the proper time. There is no way to do everything at once, so the plan should be to incrementally improve the right things at the right time. This can be accomplished by training to the necessary material, engaging people, and focusing on the manufacturing floor.