
The Missing Link in Lean: The Management System ◾ 23
Table 1.1 Visible Attributes of Different Cultures in Mass and Lean Production
Cultural
Attribute Mass Production Culture Lean Production Culture
Inventory
practices
Managed by IT system
Ordered by forecast
Storedin warehouse areas
or automated storage and
retrieval facilities
Held in bulk containers
Moved by lift truck
Many hours’ worth or
more per delivery
Delivered by the skid or tub
by forklift to vicinity of use
Managed visually
Ordered to replenish actual use
Stored in FIFO racks or grids addressed
by part number
Held in point-of-use containers
Container quantity and number of
containers specified ...