Foundational Concepts & Principles Flashcards
7 cards from real LMC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Foundational Concepts & Principles flashcards as text
The 'Plan-Do-Check-Act' (PDCA) cycle in Lean is primarily used for:
Answer: Structured problem-solving and continuous improvement of processes
PDCA provides a scientific, iterative approach to testing changes and embedding improvements into standard processes.
In Lean management, 'muri' refers to:
Answer: Overburdening of people or machines beyond reasonable capacity
Muri is overburden — pushing people or equipment beyond their natural limits — which leads to breakdowns, errors, and safety issues.
Which Lean principle directly addresses the idea that every member of the organization should contribute to improvement efforts?
Answer: Respect for people
Respect for people is a core Lean pillar that recognizes employees as the primary source of improvement ideas and problem-solving capability.
A manufacturer converts from batch processing to one-piece flow. What is the most immediate benefit expected?
Answer: Faster detection of defects and reduction in work-in-process inventory
One-piece flow exposes defects immediately since each unit moves individually, preventing large batches of defective products from accumulating.
What role does 'visual management' play in a Lean system?
Answer: It makes the status of work, problems, and standards immediately visible to anyone
Visual management makes process status, standards, and abnormalities instantly apparent so that problems can be identified and addressed without delay.
Which of the following correctly describes the relationship between Lean and Six Sigma?
Answer: Lean focuses on speed and waste elimination; Six Sigma focuses on reducing variation and defects — they are often combined as Lean Six Sigma
Lean Six Sigma combines Lean's waste elimination and flow improvement with Six Sigma's statistical tools for reducing process variation.
When conducting a waste walk (gemba walk) in Lean, what should the observer's primary focus be?
Answer: Observing the actual process to identify waste, problems, and improvement opportunities
A gemba walk is about understanding the process — not auditing people — to surface waste and stimulate improvement thinking.