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Q&As since 1989


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The Study of Kaizen

I am a BMS student. For my project I would like to know how Kaizen is different from Method study and work study. And where does it help more in method or work study. Also what are the features of Kaizen and how much of an improvement does it strive for.

Sita K.
student - Mumbai, Maharastra, India
2005

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Kaizen is a Japanese word which means idea. The basic principle is simple and you already know it. Often when a manufacturing process is set-up, there is room for improvement. Everybody who is involved will brain storm for ideas on how to save time, motion, improve quality, and save money. A good example is a kitchen. You want items you need close to you so don't have to walk for them; thus, making the project go faster.

Karl Weyermann
- Lebanon, Kentucky, USA
2005

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"Kaizen" stands for continuous improvement. Generally, we use this for improving the efficiency in the work place through waste reduction, improving the ergonomics, improving 5S, etc. Many tools may be used to understand the problem, generate ideas and implement improvement actions.

Work/method study gives elemental details of the action being carried out and prepares base for improvement and measurement. Apart from work / method study, other tools used in improvement (Kaizen) are - Line balancing, Spaghetti chart, Standard work combination charts, activity chart (internal / external)for set-up change, Value Stream Mapping, etc.

Shashiprakasha
- Bangalore, Karnataka, India
2006