Lean Methodology is a company philosophy that seeks to optimize production processes, achieve better results and add value to the end customer. Created in the last century, it remains firm in the market and shows why you cannot stay out.
We live in a time of rapid change and new trends in digital marketing. In 2020, the use of agile methodologies in companies in the country increased by 20% compared to the previous year.
Although it is not exactly new, the subject is very little discussed. The Lean Methodology is one of the main ways to optimize processes, reduce expenses and grow significantly.
What Is Lean Methodology
Whether in the management, operations or administrative areas, the Lean Methodology works only with what is strictly necessary to eliminate excesses and solve problems efficiently.
It is a continuous process that cuts waste, adds value to the company and better serves customers. The idea is to rethink processes and define priorities to deliver only the best to the consumer, with less expense.
Although it is not a current concept, the principle of this technique resonates to this day and continues to bring results to companies of all sizes.
Principles Of Lean Methodology
To apply the Lean Methodology in your business, you must first understand the five pillars supporting this idea. Furthermore, “lean thinking”, as they are called, serves to help apply the method to any sector of a company.
Are they:
- Value: identify what is considered value for the customer and develop it;
- Value stream: mapping from raw material to the final product and recording the steps that add value to the product, eliminating those that do not aggregate;
- Continuous flow: filter only what is necessary and remove inefficient steps
- Pull production: base production on the index of actual demands, avoiding idle stocks;
- Perfection: seek continuous improvement and work as a team to identify and eliminate waste.
To achieve results, you must understand that each action depends on your objective and know how to work with other agile methodologies to improve your business. This makes achieving your goals with better quality and in less time easier.
Benefits Of The Lean Methodology
As we mentioned, the lean Methodology offers much to companies of all sizes. The method is more widespread and, consequently, more efficient in large industries.
If you want to increase your productivity and results, as well as reduce costs, but are still unsure whether the lean Methodology is ideal for your company, take a look at the main benefits below:
- Reduction of waste at all stages;
- Process optimization;
- Improving product quality;
- Better use of resources;
- Increased productivity and employee performance;
- Simplification of production steps.
How To Implement The Lean Methodology
With the benefits presented, it’s time to plan how to implement the lean Methodology in your company.
But first, we need to warn you that this cannot be applied overnight. Everything depends on very detailed planning, effort from everyone involved and the reaction and receptivity of employees.
To do this, we will help you map all processes with the following information:
Know What The Customer Is Looking For
The first step is to analyze what is essential to your client calmly. That is, what makes him consume with you? Think about the products and services they value and focus your efforts on serving them.
Define The Value Stream
Identify all stages of the production process and analyze what happens in each of them. Define which are essential and which can be cut or avoided, such as unnecessary rework.
Avoid Waste
Think about ways to optimize and speed up processes that add value to the customer. Reduce stock waiting times and avoid miscommunication. Improve the activity started in the previous tip.
Have A Continuous Flow
Create a fluid process by eliminating obstacles from the production process. Try to synchronize work and maintain a constant production pace.
Constantly Seek Improvement
Implementing the lean Methodology can change the company’s principles, so it is normal for it not to be so well received at first. Therefore, encourage employees to participate by identifying problems and offering solutions.
Invest in an environment conducive to constant team improvement and invest in tools to facilitate adaptation.
Monitor And Adjust
Lastly, measure and track the results of your efforts. Monitor the progress of the project and learn how to overcome future problems. Establish indicators that can help you.
Another critical point is to research other companies and understand what works or not for each of them so you know what to test in your business and how to make adjustments if necessary.
Also Read: Agile Project Management: How To Apply?
