Lean Management
Continuous process optimisation
Knappe + Lehbrink Promotion introduced lean management in 2016. Lean management is an approach to continuous process optimisation, and involves designing the entire supply chain as efficiently as possible. With the help of different methods, procedures and thought principles, streamlined management pursues the goals of harmonising processes and creating a comprehensive production system without waste.
The idea originated from Japanese car manufacturer Toyota. The company was looking for ways to consistently optimise its production process and make it more efficient, in the hope of ensuring its own manufacturing was as streamlined as possible. This philosophy is based on production without waste, which is what the term “lean” is based on.
Lean management places customers even more in focus, and eliminates the differentiation between internal and external customers: Every order demands the same level of quality. This commitment to quality is an essential part as the aspects of lean management described above. Of course, even such apparently essential features can all too quickly fade into the background in everyday work processes. Because of this, lean management works to increase employee awareness for these aspects.
At Knappe + Lehbrink, we also use shop floor management to achieve these goals, working to ensure a continuous improvement process. This is supported, for instance, by daily reporting using the shop floor board. The board documents feedback on deviations from standards, and identifies measures and identifies development problems early on.
LEAN management and the 5S method
The 5S workplace organisation method is a lean management tool. 5S can be used to improve efficiency, quality, organisation and cleanliness as well as safety all at the same time.
The 5S's are:
- Sort
- Shine
- Set in order
- Standardise and
- Sustain
One of the principles of lean management and 5S is to keep only the objects you really need at each work station. Work station processes are standardised, and workers show the discipline needed to maintain and improve their condition.
- Continuous improvement: The heart of lean management
- Concentrated focus on processes, customers and employees
- Leadership in lean management: People in focus