This Week on Supply Chain Now: April 20-24

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…

As the supply chain industry continues to face profound transformation, staying updated on the latest trends, innovations, and best practices in the space is crucial. With over 464 million podcast listeners worldwide, podcasts have become an invaluable resource for professionals seeking insights and inspiration. The wonderful world of the web means you can find a podcast in any niche, but how do you separate the wheat from the chaff when it comes to quality supply chain podcasts? To help you get there, we’ve curated a round-up of the top ten must-listen supply chain podcasts that will keep you informed and entertained. 1. Supply Chain Now Where to Listen: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now/ Hosts: Scott Luton and various industry experts. Best for: The go-to resource for insights into global supply chain performance. Featured in the Apple Podcasts business leadership charts in over 60 countries, Supply Chain Now is a renowned podcast for its extensive coverage of supply chain topics, including insights from industry leaders and experts. Hosted by Scott Luton and his team of industry-veteran co-hosts from brands like Amazon, P&G, and Nordstrom, the podcast delves into everything from logistics and transportation to technology and innovation. With a history of high-quality content and engaging…