Integrated Lean Assessment ◾ 77
Assess
The next step is to identify the root causes of the wastes that have been
uncovered and determine whether they can be removed economically. Keep
the supply chain concept in perspective: Assessment must include determi-
nation as to whether the proposed waste reduction will create greater wastes
elsewhere. Examples are as follows.
Time of People versus Time of Things
Chapter 2 described how Ford subdivided tasks to eliminate non-value-
adding motions, such as picking up and putting down tools. If one person
places a fastener while another tightens it, the time necessary to pick up and
put down the tool is eliminated. If the time necessary to place the fastener
does not equal the time necessary to tighten i ...