Charles Walker

Lean manufacturing is all about reducing waste and increasing efficiency. Manufacturers have been implementing lean practices for decades and have stood the test of time. Now, with technological advancements, lean methodologies can be more transformative than ever before. “Integrating automation into lean manufacturing is a powerful strategy. Unlike traditional automation, which often aims to increase production capacity without considering real needs, lean automation focuses on the smart and selective application of technologies to meet specific continuous improvement goals and eliminate inefficiencies,” the Kaizen Institute said. “Digital transformation provides an unprecedented opportunity for implementing lean,” it continued. “When applied within lean, tools like the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics can revolutionize how organizations detect and eliminate waste.” What is Lean Manufacturing? In “The Machine That Changed The World,” published in 1990, lean production is hailed as “Toyota’s secret weapon in the global car wars.” The Toyota Production System was developed following World War II from “a series of simple innovations … to provide both continuity in process flow and a wide variety in product offerings,” according to the Lean Enterprise Institute. In “Lean Thinking,” a 1996 follow-up to “The Machine That Changed The World,” authors James…

Whether you’re a seasoned supply chain professional or a newcomer, keeping up with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices is essential for maintaining a competitive edge. One of the most effective ways to do this is by tuning into podcasts that focus on the industry. Here, we introduce three influential podcasts: Supply Chain Now, Logistics with Purpose, and Digital Transformers. Let’s explore each of these supply chain podcasts, covering their topics, episode formats, and why they should be on your must-listen list. Three Supply Chain Podcasts to Keep You Informed We’re spilling the tea on the best supply chain podcasts you need to know. Be sure to check out these three favorites of ours, wherever you get your podcasts. 1. Supply Chain Now Where to listen: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now/ Hosts: Scott Luton and various others Podcast Description We may be a little biased but Supply Chain Now is a leading podcast that provides comprehensive insights into global supply chain performance. Hosted by Scott Luton and his team of industry-veteran co-hosts from companies like Amazon, P&G, and Nordstrom, this podcast covers a wide range of topics, including logistics, transportation, technology, and innovation. Supply Chain Now has been featured in the Apple Podcasts…