WORKSHOP SYNOPSIS:
This workshop provides an overview of Lean management to those with little or no background in the subject who require a basic understanding of how Lean principles can be applied to a broad range of workplace activities. It would also be a valuable workshop for people who may have had some prior training or experience with Lean principles, but feel they require a refresher. Attendees will learn how Lean management can benefit both the manufacturing and service sides of their operation. The workshop is based on the notion that the primary benefit of the Lean philosophy lies in its simplicity, its emphasis on the minimization of waste, and its methods for identifying and eliminating non value-added activities. A range of important Lean management principles will be covered during the one-day session, including the following:

• The early origins of Lean management
• Five key elements of Lean management
• Value added versus non-value added activities
• The seven primary categories of waste
• Automation with a human touch (Jidoka)
• Process analysis and spaghetti maps
• Overview of how to use value stream mapping (VSM)
• Good housekeeping and the 5S’s (Sort, Straighten, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain)
• Important elements of work area design
• Components of standard work
• Mistake Proofing (Poka-Yoke)
• Basics of Kaizen (continuous improvement)
• Overview of how to plan and run a “Kaizen Blitz”
• Basic kanban principles and its impact on inventory levels
• Cycle time versus takt time

Real-life examples and case study activities will be used to enhance and reinforce learning. The range of topics covered may be modified slightly based on the interests and needs of participants.