Lean Principles and Foundations Flashcards

Which lean principle focuses on delivering value in small, frequent increments rather than large batches?

Answer: Flow

Flow is the lean principle of moving work through the value stream smoothly and continuously in small increments to reduce delays and inventory.

In lean thinking, 'Muda' refers to which of the following?

Answer: Waste

Muda is the Japanese term for waste — any activity that consumes resources without adding value for the customer.

A company redesigns its assembly line so that each station's output rate matches the customer demand rate. This is an example of applying which lean concept?

Answer: Takt time

Takt time is the rate at which products must be completed to meet customer demand, and aligning production to takt time is a core lean practice.

Which of the following best describes the 'Pull' principle in lean?

Answer: Producing goods only when the downstream process signals a need

Pull means production is triggered by actual downstream demand, preventing overproduction and excess inventory.

Which lean waste category describes defective products that require rework or scrap?

Answer: Defects

Defects is one of the 8 wastes of lean and includes any product or service that does not meet quality requirements, requiring rework or disposal.

The concept of 'Genchi Genbutsu' in lean management means:

Answer: Go and see for yourself at the actual place

Genchi Genbutsu means 'go and see' — lean leaders are expected to observe problems firsthand at the actual workplace rather than relying solely on reports.

In a lean value stream, which activities should be maximized?

Answer: Value-added activities

Lean aims to maximize value-added activities — those that directly transform a product or service in ways the customer is willing to pay for.