In 1981, Shigeo Shingo, namesake of the Shingo Prize and author of A Study of the Toyota Production System, explained Lean principles. "The pursuit of improvement is carried out along three axes. The X axis, illustrated to the right, represents goals. The Y axis represents multiple project objectives. The Z axis symbolizes the method used to achieve future state production:"

1. Numerical errors are the most pervasive source of wasted time. Measurement errors, analysis flaws, and spreadsheet formula typos are classic time wasters.
2. Defects are mistakes. Mistake-proof a process and you get rid of wasted time.
3. Transportation wastes energy and time. Eliminate transportation costs and you will have more money in your bank account. You will have more time for real work.
4. Motion wastes health. Ergonomic work stations save time and money.
5. Inventory excesses are a waste of money, time, accounting attention and space.
6. Processing errors by delivering defects to customers, servicing warranties and other standard operating procedures waste time.
7. Overproducing goods or services people do not want or need wastes time, money, and resources.
8. Waiting is a waste of time. Lean eliminates lines.

A lean project charter is often the first step management takes on its road to Lean performance. Call us today at 425-512-9369 to learn more about electronic Value Stream Mapping, Kaizen Blitz workouts, data base lean audits, and the other Lean consulting services we deliver.