Source: EPA
4. SMED
SMED, which stands for Single-Minute Exchange of Dies, is a system for reducing equipment
changeover time by converting as many changeover steps as possible when the equipment is running, and by simplifying and streamlining the remaining steps. With the changeover time reduced, the manufacturing costs will be reduced and there will be smaller lot sizes. Other benefits of this technique are flexibility in meeting customer demand and lower inventory levels.
5. Five S
5S is a methodology aimed at creating a well-organized workplace that is uncluttered, clean, and safe. This results in increased productivity, both physically and mentally. This process involves 5 concepts beginning with the letter “S” derived from Japanese terms.
a) Seiri (sort) – Identify unnecessary tools and parts, and get rid of them.
b) Seiton (set) – Organize and arrange the remaining necessary parts.
c) Seiso (shine) – Inspect the workspace daily and clean regularly.
d) Seiketsu (standardize) – Set the standards for the previous steps and record them.
e) Shitsuske (sustain) – Once the standards are in place, ensure everyone in the organization understands them and follows them.
6. Kaizen
Kaizen is a Japanese term derived from two words, Kai – change and Zen – good which literally means good change. In other words, improvement. It is the practice of consistently detecting, identifying, and implementing improvements in processes. It encourages everyone in the organization to be involved in the process of executing improvements. With the implementation of Kaizen, there will gradually be a decrease in waste because of the collective knowledge of everyone in the organization working together to handle the smallest inefficiencies.
Kaizen follows the PDCA pattern – Plan, Do, Check, and Act.