Andon

This is a method of lean production that uses audio-visual controls and warning systems to indicate the status of particular aspects of the production process.

Benchmarking

The routine process of an organization comparing its products, processes (operations) and performance to that of its competitors or its own historical standards.

Cradle to cradle (C2C)

This lean approach to waste management involves design and manufacturing that is sustainable and waste-free. All material inputs can be recycled or reused, or are consumable or compostable.

Efficiency

This means using resources more productively, in order to generate more output.

Just-in-case (JIC)

This is a stock control system that requires businesses to have large quantities of stock, in the event that it is needed for an unexpected order or in case there is a problem with the supply chain.

Just-in-time (JIT)

This is a lean method of stock control whereby materials and components are scheduled to arrive precisely when they are needed in the production process.

Kaizen

The Japanese process and philosophy of lean production that involves making continuous improvements in small, incremental steps to in order to achieve greater efficiency.

Kanban

The Japanese term for ‘billboard sign’, this method of lean production relies on a card system to indicate what needs to be produced, quantities of resources required, and production deadlines.

Lean production

This is a philosophy, approach or organizational culture about streamlining production processes in order to increase efficiency and reduce waste

Quality

This means that a product is fit for purpose, i.e. the good or service meets or exceeds the needs of its customers.

Quality assurance (QA)

This is a lean approach to quality management as it involves all employees in the quality process.

Quality circles

Small groups of employees who meet on a regular basis to discuss quality issues and make recommendations to improve quality standards.

Quality control (QC)

The most traditional form of quality management in which a supervisor or inspector periodically checks and examines output for possible defects, usually at the end of the production process.

Quality standards

These national and international benchmarks enable certification of quality assurance, certifying that the product has met certain minimum standards to meet the needs of customers.

Total quality management (TQM)

An approach to quality management that involves all workers having responsibility for maintaining quality standards throughout the production process.

Waste

Anything that prevents an organization from being efficient or lean, such as defected products, stockpiling and overproduction.

Zero defects

An aspect of lean production that focuses on preventing mistakes being made by getting things done right, first time round.