Lean problem-solving

Abstract

Abstract This chapter discusses the key tools to find process-waste and problem-solving in the context of apparel manufacturing. The managers and decision-makers in conventional apparel manufacturing are essentially involved in activities, such as communicating necessary information, increasing efficiencies or productivity, and troubleshooting the day-to-day problems. This chapter aims at providing lean-based alternatives paths, tools, and techniques to traditional problem-solving. A step-by-step procedure to carry out the value stream mapping (VSM) in a 5-pocket denim garment manufacturing factory is presented. Value streams of both the current state and future state are prepared with an aim to balance production and demand. Further, the other problem-solving techniques, such as standardized work, plan–do–check–act cycle, root-cause analysis, Ishikawa diagram, and Why-Why (5-Why) analysis are also explained.