The Tap, the Car and the Teacup

A multi-’fauceted’ analogy of LEAN process improvement

What is ‘LEAN’ process improvement? How does the LEAN way improve processes? To gain an understanding, it’s best to start literally.

Here’s a dictionary definition:

lean (lēn): thin, especially healthily so; having no superfluous fat.

From a process perspective, ‘superfluous fat’ can be understood as inefficiency.

When a process consists of just one person doing one activity with all the required resources, things are simple. However, when we start to add more steps and more people into it, things become more complicated.

Efficient processes co-ordinate various resources, in the best possible sequence, to deliver a product or service. Inefficient processes are bloated with wasteful operating practices. That waste builds up over time.

But there’s no need to go into complicated examples. Instead, let’s start by making tea.

Making a cup of tea for yourself is simple enough. Making tea for 10 guests is slightly…