Not much is written on how to implement Lean Manufacturing. Some firms stumble through with trial and error. Others rely on repeated Kaizen Events. Wickham Skinner does not consider Lean Manufacturing to be an actual Manufacturing Strategy. He likens it to "blocking and tackling" in football - a necessary skill but insufficient for consistently winning Game.
In developing a Lean Manufacturing Strategy and implementation plan, we recommend five general steps:
1. Evaluate The Current State
2. Determine The Future-State Workflow (In Principle)
3. Identify Future State Infrastructure (In Principle)
4. Identify Precedents and Priorities
5. Develop The Plans
As a new consultant to Kortie Company Ltd, explain to the management team how these steps can be implemented to achieve a competitive advantage.