Lean: Kanban/Pull

What is Lean: kanban/pull?

Lean: kanban/pull is a process that transforms a company’s production strategy. A key objective of lean manufacturing is to link production processes by continuous flow. Where desired flow is not possible due to monuments (batch dependent operations), remote operations, or unreliable processes, a manufacturer may convert production from “push” operations to “pull”—that is, from manufacturing to forecast to manufacturing in order to replenish units sold. “Kanbans” (one of several types of pull signals) are replenishment signal cards that indicate how many parts or units need to be produced in order to replace those that have been either consumed by downstream processes or sold to customers.

See in-depth information and related links.

What are the benefits of Lean: kanban/pull?

Implementation of Lean: kanban/pull will help

• reduce inventory and product obsolescence.
• increase output.
• reduce total costs. 

What can CIRAS do for my company?

CIRAS can provide a Lean expert to facilitate Lean: kanban/pull for a team of company members, including both management and production workers. Teams learn how to use tools for managing demand, locate and size component supermarkets, select pull signals, and implement the pull system.

What is my next step?

Contact these staff members to see what CIRAS can do for you.

Jeff Mohr	515-294-8534	jeffmohr@iastate.edu
James R. Black	515-294-1507	jimblack@iastate.edu