Had an argument with my boss today. (Not too heated)
Anyway, he went on a 'Lean manufacturing' course (Jolly) and has returned an expert!
So here's the question for you all:
You are working as an assembler in a carburetor factory and you have a 5m working bench where you assemble carbs from 20 or so individual pieces.
You use several tools of different sizes.
Is it quicker (more lean), to place 5 up on the table and repeat every step 5 times (using the same size tool) and assemble 5 at a time. (It's what we've been doing for the past 30 years)
or
place one unit on the table with pieces and assemble. Place on pallet. Repeat.
He said that on the jolly (course), they did exercises with LEGO! No mention of the 6mm, 8mm, 13mm, 19mm sockets, as well as electrical screwdriver and small rubber hammer!
cheers, and don't worry, my job's not at risk!