From the course: Introduction to Lean Manufacturing Best Practices for Production Workers
Join today to access over 24,900 courses taught by industry experts.
Catch small issues before they stop production
From the course: Introduction to Lean Manufacturing Best Practices for Production Workers
Catch small issues before they stop production
It's rarely the big problems that catch you off guard. It's the small ones that build up silently — a tool that's slightly off, a machine that makes a weird sound, a process that feels slower than usual. In lean manufacturing, catching these small issues early is one of the best ways to keep production flowing smoothly. Think of it as early detection. The longer a minor issue goes unnoticed, the more likely it becomes a bigger and more expensive problem. Do regular walkthroughs of your area — not just glancing around, really take a moment to observe. Look at your equipment or workspace, even your body movements. What feels off? If something feels harder than it used to be, pay attention. That friction might be a sign of a hidden issue. Use visual cues. Lean environments often use shadow boards, Kanban tags, or visual defect markers. Take the time to update them. They're not just for show — they're signals that help everyone respond faster. Report early. Don't wait until a machine…
Download courses and learn on the go
Watch courses on your mobile device without an internet connection. Download courses using your iOS or Android LinkedIn Learning app.