Lean Inventory & JIT Systems Flashcards
7 cards from real CIM practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Lean Inventory & JIT Systems flashcards as text
Which of the following is a key prerequisite for successfully implementing JIT inventory?
Answer: Reliable, high-quality suppliers capable of frequent small deliveries
JIT depends entirely on suppliers delivering defect-free materials on time in small quantities, making supplier reliability non-negotiable.
What is 'andon' in the context of lean manufacturing?
Answer: A visual signal system that alerts the team to a production problem so it can be addressed immediately
Andon systems (lights, cords, or boards) make problems visible instantly so teams can swarm and resolve them before defects or downtime propagate.
A company implements SMED (Single-Minute Exchange of Die). What inventory impact does this have?
Answer: Allows economical small-batch production, reducing WIP and finished goods inventory
SMED slashes changeover time, making small production runs economical and eliminating the large batch sizes that create excess inventory.
In lean terminology, what is a 'supermarket' in the context of pull systems?
Answer: A controlled inventory point where items are stored for downstream processes to pull as needed
A lean supermarket is a small, managed buffer between disconnected processes that enables pull replenishment when true continuous flow isn't possible.
Which lean waste category describes unnecessary movement of inventory or materials within a facility?
Answer: Transportation (material movement)
Transportation waste involves moving materials farther or more often than necessary, which adds cost and risk of damage without adding value.
A lean assessment finds that a plant produces 500 units/day but customers only demand 300 units/day. Which waste does this represent?
Answer: Overproduction
Overproduction — making more than demand requires — is considered the worst lean waste because it generates inventory that hides other problems.
What role does Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) play in supporting JIT inventory systems?
Answer: TPM maximizes equipment availability and reliability, enabling consistent JIT production without buffer stock
Reliable equipment is a JIT prerequisite — TPM's focus on preventing breakdowns allows low-inventory systems to operate without costly production stoppages.