Lean tool: KANBAN (Pull System)

A system is best controlled when the material and information flow into and out of the process in a smooth and rational manner. If the process input arrived before they are needed, unnecessary, confusion, inventory, and cost generally occurred. If the process output are not synchronized with downstream processes, delays, disappointed customer and associated cost may occurred. A properly administered kanban system will improve the system and control by assuring timely movement of product and information. kanban is implemented using a visual indicator called kanban card. The card indicated the quantity to be replenished once the minimum level is reached.

An empty bin with a kanban card is the single for production to pull material from the previous step. the kanban quantity is mathematically calculated and fine tune during practically implementation. typically, organization take a while to perfect kanban. kanban is more mature concept.