Role of Lean Manufacturing on Organization Competitiveness

Abstract

This paper focuses on an empirical and theoretical understanding of lean manufacturing as a general solution to effective operations management in an organization through applications of its elements such as Just-in-time, higher efficiency manufacturing through the principle of 'continuous product flow', Continuous improvement of processes along the entire value chain and setting up of multi-functional and multi-skilled teams at all levels to achieve its goals. The redesign of the production floor such that a product is manufactured progressively from one workstation to another with minimal waiting time and handling operations between stations has been the main objective of many organizations today however lack of proper understanding of lean concept and its application has resulted to redundancy in many organization activities. This paper illustrates the role that lean manufacturing play today in our organizations in facilitating operations and hence production flow, maximizing profit, meeting customers’ expectations and being competitive, with minimal or no waste.

Finally implementation of lean manufacturing practices should support the company business strategy and be in line with the corporate vision, mission, values and plans including communication and evaluation plans to build employee buy-in and communicate results. This will eventually improve overall organization performance and cultivate a closer customer relationship.

Key words: Lean manufacturing, Just in Time, Value, Continuous improvement, Total Quality Management