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Three Challenges of Lean Manufacturing

The main principle behind lean manufacturing is doing more with less. Its purpose is to achieve the highest level of customer satisfaction while earning a profit. The benefits of implementing a lean manufacturing strategy will vary for each manufacturer. However, the main challenges may remain constant. The following are the top three challenges of lean manufacturing that businesses commonly face.

Cost

Whether you’re updating your equipment or upgrading your production line, it’s a capital investment with the cost made before you see a return. The same can be said of lean manufacturing. You will be incurring the expenses before you begin to see the benefits. But you will see the benefits and for a long time. Remember, patience and perseverance are the key!

Carrying on the Upkeep

To begin, you’ll have to gather resources from the facilities to implement your lean manufacturing strategy. This may warrant hiring a few extra employees to get the work done faster. You might have to relocate equipment or deal with damaged parts. Once the strategy is implemented, upkeep will be required. It’s crucial that you start plan for the labor to deal with these issues and maintain the lean manufacturing processes.

Employee Resistance

It’s human nature to resist change. Your employees, especially the long-term ones, may oppose the new lean manufacturing strategy because they see it as a threat. You’ll have to engage with them frequently to explain the benefits of lean culture, both personally and organizationally. Also, you must provide necessary training sessions to help them accept and adjust to the change.

Once you’re able to overcome these obstacles, lean manufacturing will provide continuous improvement and long-term success. Plan your lean manufacturing strategy carefully and implement it with care for maximum benefits.

Universal DeVlieg provides innovative and cost-cutting tool holding and high precision boring solutions to the machine tool industry, servicing a diversified customer base. The combination of over 32,000 active part numbers, over 10,000 standard items, and our technical support staff deliver design engineering expertise that is unmatched in the industry. To learn more about Universal DeVlieg, contact us at  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 877.308.3077 or visit at universaldevlieg.com.