Visual Management is used extensively in lean manufacturing implementation. Visual Management is the use of visual displays in managing the Lean enterprise. Visual displays range from identification to critical “andon” lights for emergency response. VM is used throughout most Lean Manufacturing disciplines, such as 5S, Quick Changeover, TPM, Kanban, and Flow.

5S utilizes visual management throughout all phases. Visual displays remind operators to sort out unnecessary items, organize the workplace, and the benefits of 5S.

Standard work uses visual management to provide instruction for completing tasks using the same best known method every day.

Visual management has been used for years in safety and productivity programs. However, the most effective use of visual management is in key areas of the lean system to eliminate all forms of waste. For example, one of the biggest wastes in industry is from small machine or line stops. These small stops often occur so frequently that it adds up to a huge waste of labor and machine capacity. Effective visual management uses visual aids to reduce or eliminate small stops and minimize the time required for the machine or line to be at full speed.

The VM module teaches the importance of selective use of displays to implement Lean Manufacturing. If everything in the company is visually displayed, the importance is diminished. Therefore, it is critical to visually emphasize the most important activities.

BPR’s lean manufacturing certification online courses can be completed at your convenience 24/7. Simply log in and begin the course. You can stop any time and come back to where you left off. Once the course is successfully completed, the certification will be mailed to you.