There has been much written about both Lean and Six Sigma and many within the business improvement industry have promoted the use of both techniques combined as Lean Sigma, but just why do the experts say that you should use…
Creating your Ideal and Future State Value Stream Map
Having created your current state value stream map we move onto the more difficult task of creating an Ideal state map and your future state value stream maps. Your Ideal state value stream map is the ultimate goal of your…
Creating A Value Stream Map
This is a step by step guide to creating a current state value stream map, the first step in working towards your ideal state value stream and a truly lean system. Your current state value stream map is a team…
VSM Value Stream Mapping
What is VSM This article is an Overview of VSM, if you want more detailed information n please look at; Step by Step Guide to creating a value stream map Creating an ideal state VSM Value stream mapping (VSM)…
Process Mapping your Value Stream
What is process mapping? Process mapping your value stream is all about detailing the specific actions that are taken throughout your entire process or a specific portion of your processes. There are a number of process mapping tools that you…
Jidoka
What is Jidoka? The forgotten Pillar of the Toyota Production System Jidoka is the often forgotten pillar of the Toyota Production system and lean manufacturing yet it is one of the most important principles of lean that can help…
Autonomation
What is Autonomation? Autonomation is automation with a human touch; but what does that really mean and where has it come from? Sakichi Toyoda invented a loom in 1896 that not only operated automatically but also stopped when any of…
Poka Yoke
What is Poka Yoke Poka Yoke or Mistake proofing is a simple technique that developed out of the Toyota Production system through Jidoka and Autonomation. It is normally a simple and often inexpensive device that prevents defects from being made…
OEE Calculation
OEE Formula Your OEE calculation is based on a composite of the six big losses of your equipment broken down into three main areas; Availability, performance and quality. It is a very simple calculation in reality; OEE = Availability%…
OEE
What is OEE? OEE or Overall equipment effectiveness is a performance measure that reflects the health of your process or machine, it is a composite measure that is calculated from your machines availability, performance and the quality of output and…