Lean Expectations: Not Just a Body Count

"Getting Lean" can mean different things to different people. Sometimes employers use it as an euphemism for job layoffs but that would be the more literal definition of lean and not representative of the methodologies for continuous improvement. Lean manufacturing is a systematic method of eliminating waste and can provide a lot of benefits to manufacturers without compromising the welfare of their employees. Here are a few examples how "Getting Lean" can be a good thing for workers:

• Bring back jobs from overseas - North America has largely rid itself from manufacturing jobs due to the higher labor costs involved in comparison to Asia. However, Lean manufacturing has allowed some home-grown manufacturers to streamline their processes and produce more effectively with less waste. With better efficiency rates and output, there is opportunity to bring back and create manufacturing jobs at home. This approach is exemplified further in an article about Unionwear by Mark Grabon.
   
• Improve current working conditions - Although Lean is about reducing wastes and optimizing value-add activities, the by-product is often improved working conditions for employees. The idea is to work smarter not harder, which translates into a better overall working environment. Less defects means less corrective actions or sorting activities and less motion means less wasted effort by employees. The end result should be a less stressful day at the office. 
   
• Raise level of employment - Lean does not always mean cutting down on headcount, it could mean raising the level of employment of the existing workforce. With reduced waste and streamlined processes, it gives workers more opportunity to focus more on value-add activities that were previously not performed. This could lead to increase in safety, quality, or costs savings. Management support of Lean tools empowers all employees to influence their work environment for the better.