The Kanban E-volution: Electronic kanban systems automate the pull-based replenishment methoctology without forsaking lean manufacturing's commitment to simplicity

摘要

For many U.S. factories that attempt to implement lean manufacturing cutting costs is not an option. They face life-threatening price competition from overseas suppliers and must do something dramatic if they have any hope of remaining competitive. Lean's waste-reduction techniques and process-improvement focus can lower inventory levels, reduce working capital, and speed order fulfillment, giving these manufacturers a fighting chance. But making the cultural transformation from a batch-oriented production operation that builds to a forecast, to one triggered by customer demand is not for the faint of heart. Anything that makes it easier, therefore, should be embraced. That's the fundamental argument of proponents of electronic kanban (e-kanban) systems. "Some lean gurus will tell you that you don't need technology, and they're anti-technology," says Ralph Rio, director of research for lean manufacturing at ARC Advisory Group (Dedham, Mass.), a research and consulting firm. He bluntly refutes that viewpoint, "They are stuck in 1978 when Taiichi Ohno wrote his book on the Toyota Production System."