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Kanban
scheduling systems are among the most simple, effective and
inexpensive means for manufacturing production and inventory
control. The concept is
proven. From Nagoya to Wichita Falls; from Windsor to Geelong;
from micro-electronics to heavy steel– they reduce
inventory, eliminate stockouts, displace massive
computers and slash overhead. They improve both service
and quality.
So
why doesn't every manufacturer employ this miracle? In
many situations, it is inappropriate–– other methods work
better.
Even When Kanban
is an excellent choice, firms may ignore it. Kanban scheduling
often evokes strong emotional responses and sets a variety of
organizational phenomena at work against it. |
Kanban
production control is simple yet subtle; empowering and also
threatening; robust yet delicate; both adaptable and rigid; easy
to explain but difficult to understand. It
is a key component of most Lean Manufacturing strategies.
The
pages below describe kanban systems and explain where
to use them. They show how to design
systems, how to choose the number
of cards, and describe real-life
examples.
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