In the dynamic world of manufacturing, where every second counts, the principles of lean manufacturing have stood the test of time. Originating from the Toyota Production System, lean manufacturing is all about trimming the fat and maximizing efficiency in your processes.
Traditionally, there are eight recognized wastes in lean manufacturing. However, in today’s digitized landscape, we at Workerbase have seen a ninth waste emerge: not keeping up with the pace of digitization. Manufacturers that aren’t able to effectively digitize their operations and embrace the digital transformation are already at a clear disadvantage, and with the pace only picking up, those not taking proactive steps are likely to be left behind.
In this article, we’ll quickly review the types of waste in manufacturing, and address the importance of digitization to reduce waste. We’ll look at how connected worker platforms in particular can help manufacturers overhaul their production processes quickly and efficiently by bringing together frontline staff, machines and existing IT systems.
The eight + one wastes of lean manufacturing
Let’s start by revisiting the original eight wastes.
How can Connected Worker platforms help cut waste
Connected Worker platform empowers manufacturers to tackle all nine wastes head-on. Here’s how:- Waiting:
Instant notifications and instructions on smart devices keep workers engaged and productive.
– Overproduction:
Real-time demand data ensures production matches actual needs.
– Unnecessary transportation:
Workers receive precise routing information, reducing unnecessary movement.
– Extra Inventory:
Accurate inventory tracking and automated reordering prevents overstocking.
– Unnecessary motion:
Hands-free access to instructions direct at the workstation using smart devices reduces the need to move back and forth.
– Defects:
Real-time quality checks catch errors before they escalate.
– Underused skills:
Best practices sharing among frontline staff maximizes skills and speeds up task resolution
– Overprocessing:
Streamlined processes guided by smart devices eliminate unnecessary steps.
– Not keeping up with the pace of digitization::
A futureproof Connected Worker platform establishes a network for your whole production ecosystem that includes frontline operators, machines and your existing IT infrastructure. It enables you to send data (e.g. tasks, instructions) and receive input back (e.g. machine data) seamlessly in one platform that can be scaled to digitize any production process.
Getting started with a Connected Worker solution
Ready to embark on your lean manufacturing journey? It’s easier than you think, and you could be rolling out your first digital production processes with smart devices in a matter of weeks. Here’s what to consider:
Why Workerbase?
Workerbase connects workers, machines and IT systems to turn data into flexible manufacturing execution. The Connected Worker platform, backed by a powerful process automation engine, offers the key to unlocking your manufacturing potential. Say goodbye to manual processes, communication gaps, and inefficiencies – and hello to streamlined workflows! Ultimately, the key to letting work flow optimally is having the right information, to the right people, at the right time, and in the right place.
Wrapping it all up
Leveraging Connected Worker platforms to digitally manage and optimize production processes reduces waste and can propel your operations into the digital age, ensuring continuous improvement in 2023 and beyond.
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