Arguments Against Lean Dismissed!

Arguments Against Lean Dismissed!

Arguments Against Lean Dismissed!

There is a lot of opposition against adopting Lean strategies. The top arguments against Lean include stress, a lack of margins of error, and an over focus on waste. Jim Stringfellow, Vice President of Sales and a Lean Manufacturing Specialist at Consumers Interstate Corporation, responds to these arguments below.

Argument 1: Stress Opponents to Lean Strategies argue that because so much focus is put on improvement and the elimination of waste, too much stress is caused in the workplace for employees, therefore negatively affecting output and efficiency.

Response: Stringfellow argues that the whole point of Lean is to make improvements and eliminate waste, which should instead increase productivity and efficiency. "If some companies are using Lean to increase pressure on an individual employee, then that company has missed the true meaning of Lean," he states.

Argument 2: Lack of Margins of Error Challengers to lean strategies often make the case that lean systems such as TPS and Six Sigma do not allow for any margin of error, for example, traffic jams during deliveries, employee illnesses or days when employees do not work at their optmum levels. Opponents argue this sets an unrealistic expectation and that Lean does not take variables beyond anyone's control into consideration.

Response: Stringfellow claims this is not an accurate assumption and he points out that lead times and alternative plans can and should be incorporated into procedures to account for such extenuating circumstances.

Argument 3: Over Focus on Waste Opponents to Lean may argue that there is just too much emphasis on eliminating waste with lean and thus important issues like employee wellness and corporate social responsibility are ignored.

Response: Stringfellow disagrees, stating that any priority, once identified, can be built into a company's lean process.

Many companies get a lot of resistance & opposition to implementing Lean Strategies, however, they can be a very useful tool to help a business eliminate waste and become more effective, efficient companies. It is helpful to have a Lean Specialist guide your business through these transitions, respond to concerns and ensure proper procedures are in place. To learn how CIC can help you implement Lean Strategies, Contact Us.

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