Resources

When most people think of process mapping in Lean Six Sigma, Value Stream Mapping (VSM)  often takes center stage—and for good reason. It’s one of the most powerful tools for visualizing the end-to-end flow of materials and information. But VSM is not the only process mapping method available. In fact, for specific project phases or types of problems, other tools like SIPOC , Swimlane Diagrams , and Spaghetti Diagrams  can provide sharper, more targeted insights. Let’s explor

In Lean management, some of the most effective tools are also the simplest. The Two-Bin System  is one such method—a straightforward yet powerful way to manage inventory, reduce waste, and create a pull system . Instead of relying on forecasts or guesswork, the Two-Bin System ensures that materials are replenished only when they are needed. Let’s break down how it works, why it matters, and how organizations across industries can put it into action. What Is the Two-Bin System

In the world of Lean Six Sigma, effective project management is crucial to ensure processes run smoothly, waste is minimized, and teams remain aligned. One of the most powerful and practical tools for achieving this is the Kanban board . Rooted in Lean principles and popularized by Toyota’s production system, Kanban boards provide a simple yet highly effective way to visualize workflow, track progress, and identify bottlenecks. What is a Kanban Board? A Kanban board is a visu

Takt Time is a foundational concept in Lean thinking, especially when striving to establish One Piece Flow within a process. Derived from the German word Takt , meaning "pulse" or "beat," it represents the rhythm at which a product or service must be completed to meet customer demand. Much like a conductor sets the tempo for an orchestra, Takt Time sets the pace for operations, ensuring production aligns with consumption. What Is Takt Time? At its core, Takt Time is the rate

In Lean thinking, reducing waste is everything — and motion  is one of the sneakiest forms of it. Whether it's a factory worker retrieving tools across the room or a nurse zigzagging through a ward, unnecessary movement slows everything down. That’s where the Spaghetti Diagram  comes in — a simple but powerful visual tool that maps the chaos and helps you find flow. What Is a Spaghetti Diagram? A Spaghetti Diagram  is a visual map of the physical flow of people, products, or

One Piece Flow is a core principle of Lean manufacturing and service design. At its heart, it means producing or moving one unit at a time  through each step of a process, rather than using batch processing. This approach leads to faster delivery, less waste, and greater agility. But putting One Piece Flow into practice requires more than just good intentions. It takes deliberate design, team alignment, and continuous adjustment. Here’s a step-by-step guide to implementing On