Lean Methodology Quiz

What is the main goal of Lean methodology?

• Increase production output

• Maximize value while minimizing waste

• Reduce employee numbers

• Increase prices for profit

Answer explanation

The main goal of Lean methodology is to maximize value while minimizing waste. This approach focuses on improving efficiency and reducing unnecessary costs, rather than simply increasing output or cutting employee numbers.

Which of the following is NOT one of the 7 types of waste in Lean?

• Waiting

• Overproduction

• Cost reduction

• Defects

Answer explanation

Cost reduction is not one of the 7 types of waste in Lean. The recognized types include Waiting, Overproduction, and Defects, among others, which focus on eliminating inefficiencies in processes.

In Lean, what does “Pull” mean?

• Producing based on demand

• Storing excess products for future needs

• Pushing products to the market aggressively

• Increasing production speed to reduce costs

Answer explanation

In Lean, "Pull" refers to producing based on demand, ensuring that products are made only when needed, which minimizes waste and aligns production with customer requirements.

Which of the following Lean tools is used to map out all steps in a process to identify waste?

• Value Stream Mapping

• Just-In-Time (JIT)

• Kaizen

• 5S

Answer explanation

Value Stream Mapping is a Lean tool specifically designed to visualize and analyze all steps in a process, helping to identify areas of waste and opportunities for improvement.

Which Lean concept emphasizes ongoing, continuous improvement involving everyone in the organization?

• Kaizen

• Kanban

• Poka-Yoke

• Heijunka

Answer explanation

Kaizen is a Lean concept that focuses on continuous improvement and involves all employees in the organization. It encourages everyone to contribute to enhancing processes, making it the correct choice for ongoing improvement.

What is “Muda” in Lean terminology?

• Value stream

• Waste

• Pull system

• Continuous improvement

Answer explanation

In Lean terminology, 'Muda' refers to waste, which is any activity that does not add value to the product or service. Identifying and eliminating Muda is essential for improving efficiency and effectiveness in processes.

Which Lean tool helps to visually manage the flow of tasks and limit work in progress?

• Kanban

• Kaizen

• Heijunka

• Gemba

Answer explanation

Kanban is a Lean tool that visually manages the flow of tasks using boards and cards, allowing teams to limit work in progress and enhance efficiency. It helps in tracking tasks and improving workflow.

What does the "5S" stand for in Lean?

• Sort, Straighten, Shine, Standardize, Sustain

• Sort, Sweep, Sanitize, Select, Save

• Select, Simplify, Sustain, Sort, Shine

• Shine, Sort, Sweep, Simplify, Save

Answer explanation

The correct answer is "Sort, Straighten, Shine, Standardize, Sustain". These five principles are essential in Lean methodology to organize and improve workplace efficiency.

Which of the following is a tool used in Lean to prevent errors from occurring?

• Poka-Yoke

• Jidoka

• Kanban

Answer explanation

Poka-Yoke is a Lean tool designed to prevent errors by incorporating mechanisms that help avoid mistakes in processes. Unlike Jidoka, which focuses on automation and quality control, Poka-Yoke specifically aims to eliminate errors.

In Lean, what is the purpose of Heijunka?

• Leveling production to meet customer demand

• Reducing inventory

• Increasing the speed of production

• Improving employee morale

Answer explanation

Heijunka is a Lean production technique aimed at leveling production to align with customer demand, ensuring a smooth workflow and reducing waste. This makes 'Leveling production to meet customer demand' the correct choice.