Chapter 3

A Framework for Applying Lean

Many structured approaches exist for improving processes and solving problems. The Plan, Do, Check, and Act (PDCA) approach has existed for a long time. Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control (DMAIC) is used with the Six Sigma methodology. Lean uses a similar approach, although no acronym is usually associated with it. The steps are as follows:

  1. Map the process, thereby creating the current state value stream map.
  2. Analyze the current state value stream map looking for unnecessary lead time and possible ways to reduce that wasted lead time using Lean tools.
  3. Draw the value stream map that reflects ideas for improving the process and reducing its lead time: This is called the future state value stream ...

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