Term

Definition

Autonomation or Jidoka

A semi-automatic process; human and machine working together.

Benchmarking

Measuring products, processes, services, etc. against the highest standard.

Blitz

A fast, structured, focused process for improving something (a process, a workspace, etc.).

Cycle Time

The time required to complete one cycle of a particular operation.

Five S (5S)

The principles for achieving and maintaining an effective workplace: Seiri, Seiketsu, Seiso, Seiton, and Shitsuke.

Flow

The way production moves from the beginning (raw material) to the end (customer). This is a key principle of Lean – Lean envisions the flow as one smooth process.

Gemba

A Japanese term meaning, “Where the action is.”

Genchi Genbutsu

A Japanese term meaning, “Go and see for yourself.”

Heijunka

The process of leveling the workload between resources.

Just-in-Time (JIT)

A production system where each item required is produced and available precisely when needed, in the exact amount.

Kaikaku

A fast, radical change process.

Kaizen

Constant, gradual improvement to a process in order to create less waste but more value.

Lead Time

How long a customer must wait for the product after they place an order.

Muda

An activity that creates no value but consumes resources and is therefore considered waste. There are seven types of muda which will be covered later on in this course.

Mura

Inconsistency and deviation.

Muri

Irrationality.

Pokayoke

A mistake-proofing device such as quality testing or checklists.

Pull

A production philosophy where only what is ordered by customers is produced. Key element of Just-In-Time.

Push

A production philosophy where products are created regardless of demand.

Takt Time

The rate at which customers are demanding a product. This is the heartbeat of any Lean enterprise.

Value

Desired characteristics provided to the customer at the right time, place, and cost.

Value Stream

The process of designing, producing, and delivering a product.