The concept of lean manufacturing is multifaceted. It’s an approach that was first introduced to the public in 1988 by John Krafcik in his article “Triumph of the Lean Production System”. In his article, he outlined the concept of using lean principles to reduce waste and maximise efficiency in a production system.
There’s a strong focus on the collaboration between employees, managers and customers, aiming to improve operating performance by creating an uninterrupted flow of products through this system. In doing so, waste – which may be defined as any activity that does not add value to the product or customer – must be eliminated.
Lean principles can be defined in five main ways
- Precisely identifying the value for each specific product.
- Identifying the value stream for each product.
- Allowing the value to flow without interruptions.
- Letting the customer pull value from the producer.
- Pursuing perfection.
These principles make for a highly beneficial method of production, as they undoubtedly reduce waste whilst increasing efficiency and productivity. They can be made even more beneficial with the addition of ERP systems.
Modern ERP systems such as Jobman can help support the process of lean manufacturing in five key ways.
1. Avoiding Waste
There are many different types of waste, from waiting to unnecessary work to physical waste. Jobman can help you avoid most types of them.
For example, it can allow you to easily switch to a paperless office through digitalisation, reducing your need for paper and therefore reducing some of your manufacturing costs and physical waste.
2. Pull Production
Lean principles require precise, real-time data and forecast, which ERPs like Jobman provide you with easy access to. From being able to schedule your shop floor processes to being able to receive real-time updated on your activity and processes, Jobman allows you to easily have access to reliable and accurate data.
3. Quality Management
Quality management and lean manufacturing may seem at odds with each other, as quality management often calls for extra checks and processes, whilst lean manufacturing aims to streamline all processes.
However, with ERP systems, they don’t have to be. ERP systems can be programmed with ingrained quality management modules, which will allow you to maintain the integrity of your products without adding waste and complexity to your processes.
4. Demand Planning
Quality management and lean manufacturing may seem at odds with each other, as quality management often calls for extra checks and processes, whilst lean manufacturing aims to streamline all processes.
However, with ERP systems, they don’t have to be. ERP systems can be programmed with ingrained quality management modules, which will allow you to maintain the integrity of your products without adding waste and complexity to your processes.
5. Improve workflows
ERP systems will allow you to simplify product and workflow through your business by reducing unnecessary steps, work and transfers.
Upgrade Your Manufacturing Operation With Jobman
If you’re looking for an ERP system that can support lean manufacturing, Jobman is a step in the right direction. Contact us today for more information on how we can help you streamline your operations, focusing on increasing profits whilst reducing waste.
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