Lean Production

Lean Production

To analyze the current applications of a lean production, one cannot do so without mentioning JIT production again. Summarizing what was stated previously, JIT is the production system that provides what is needed, when it is needed, and nothing more of that. With JIT, Riordan will not be storing material that is not needed, just in case of an emergency or in case something goes wrong. This is considered to be a waste of time, effort, energy, and capital. JIT is perfect for the repetitive nature of Riordan's manufacturing of electric fans. This is not to say that Riordan will not have adequate inventory. Just enough inventories are kept on hand for employees to produce products that are needed to fulfill orders, and not products to sit on a shelf. The goal is to create a better supply chain method, reduce wasted materials, and to run an efficient and cost effective operation at Riordan.

With that being said, our Team recognized and analyzed the current applications being used to create a lean production system. Lean production is designed and implemented to produce high-volume products with the minimum amount of raw materials needed. As a demand for the electric fans are expressed through an order request, those fans will then be produced. However, with the minimum amount of raw material being produced and used, this will require full participation from the employees. High-quality products will have to be produced with little to no room for error. Top quality control will have to be implemented realizing that continuous improvement will be key. At this point there is an entire department dedicated to trimming the excess plastic from a part that will be later attached to produce one fan. Team A has recognized this whole department as a waste. Employees are delegated to trim extra plastic that is not needed, utilizing space, electricity, and cleaners that are being managed as hazardous waste contributing