Visuals Build Operation Stability

Visual Impact with Lean Manufacturing

The starting point for any successful lean transformation is to establish a base of operational stability; one cannot sustain improvements made on a base of chaos.

The most common lean tools used for this purpose are 5S, Standard Work and TPM. Visuals play a critical function in all three of these foundational concepts:

• 5S: 5S visuals identify the proper storage location for each item in the work area, and also help define inventory levels and reorder triggers.
• Standard Work: Standard Work visuals help to ensure that tasks are always performed in the most efficient method and variations are eliminated to reduce defects.
• TPM: TPM visuals simplify preventative and predictive maintenance tasks, ensuring that equipment remains in optimal running condition with minimal breakdowns. Such visual systems become especially important in operator-based care programs where non-technical operators or other production employees are responsible for the routine inspection and upkeep of equipment.